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Question

Difficulty: EasyBasic Care and Comfort

A client returns to the surgical unit following a right total hip arthroplasty using a posterior approach. When assisting this client in bed, which nursing action promotes safe positioning?

  1. Place an abduction wedge between the client's legs when turning.Answer
  2. B
    Encourage the client to cross their legs at the ankles to relieve muscle tension.
  3. C
    Elevate the backrest to 90 degrees while the client is resting.
  4. D
    Assign a nursing assistant to evaluate the client's hip alignment during the shift.

Answer

Place an abduction wedge between the client's legs when turning.
Following a posterior approach total hip arthroplasty, the client's hip is at a high risk for dislocation. Using an abduction wedge or pillow between the client's legs prevents adduction (crossing the legs) and helps maintain proper joint alignment, especially when turning the client in bed. This is a fundamental comfort and safety measure.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the surgical procedure and its primary risks.
The client had a posterior total hip arthroplasty, making them highly susceptible to hip dislocation.
Understanding the specific surgical approach dictates which movements are contraindicated.
2
Recall the positioning restrictions for a posterior hip arthroplasty.
The client must avoid hip adduction (crossing legs) and hip flexion greater than 90 degrees.
These specific movements place stress on the posterior surgical capsule.
3
Select the nursing intervention that enforces these restrictions.
Placing an abduction wedge prevents adduction and keeps the joint safely aligned.
This is a direct application of basic care and comfort principles to prevent injury.

Key Concept

Safe Positioning Post-Total Hip Arthroplasty
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Topics

Basic Care and Comfort

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