A nurse is planning care for a client who is 48 hours post-operative following a right above-the-knee amputation (AKA) due to complications of peripheral arterial disease. Which of the following positioning interventions is most appropriate to include in the client's plan of care?
- AElevate the right residual limb on a pillow while the client is resting in a supine position.
- BMaintain the client in a high Fowler's position while in bed to facilitate deep breathing.
- Assist the client into a prone position for 30 minutes three to four times a day.Answer
- DPosition a trochanter roll alongside the right thigh to maintain external rotation of the hip.
Answer
Assist the client into a prone position for 30 minutes three to four times a day.
Following an above-the-knee amputation, the client is at high risk for developing a hip flexion contracture, which can permanently impair mobility and the ability to bear weight on a prosthesis. Assisting the client into a prone position for 20 to 30 minutes, 3 to 4 times a day, actively extends the hip joint and stretches the flexor muscles, effectively preventing contractures.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Prevention of hip flexion contractures following an above-the-knee amputation