A practical nurse is providing care for a client who had a right total hip arthroplasty using a posterior approach the previous day. The nurse is preparing to assist the client with repositioning and comfort measures in bed. Which of the following actions is the most appropriate to maintain proper alignment and prevent joint dislocation?
- Place an abduction wedge or pillow between the client's legs while turning them.Answer
- BElevate the head of the bed to a 90-degree angle while the client eats their meals.
- CSupport the right leg with a trochanter roll to encourage internal rotation of the hip.
- DAllow the client to cross their legs at the ankles while resting in a supine position.
Answer
Place an abduction wedge or pillow between the client's legs while turning them.
Following a total hip arthroplasty with a posterior approach, maintaining abduction is a critical priority. Using an abduction wedge or pillow between the legs during turning prevents the affected leg from crossing the body's midline (adduction). This maintains the proper alignment of the femur in the acetabulum and prevents posterior dislocation of the prosthesis.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Postoperative Positioning and Hip Precautions