An older patient with a history of diabetes is experiencing poor ...

[xclash]

An older patient with a history of diabetes is experiencing poor healing of a fractured ankle. The nurse recognizes that which factors contribute to the delay in bone healing?
 
  Select all that apply.
  1. immobilization
  2. advanced age
  3. diabetes
  4. moderate activity level prior to injury
  5. presence of foreign body at the fracture site

Question 2

A patient is diagnosed with epicondylitis. The nurse recognizes that which treatment might be indicated for this condition?
 
  Select all that apply.
  1. ibuprofen 600 mg twice daily
  2. morphine sulfate 4 mg IV
  3. arm splint to be used while awake
  4. ice followed by heat
  5. surgical repair

[kjohnson]

Answer to Question 1

Correct Answer: 2, 3, 5

The factors that have influenced the delay in bone healing are the advanced age of the patient, the diagnosis of diabetes, and the presence of a foreign body at the fracture site. Immobilization and a moderate activity level before the fracture would be positive factors.

Answer to Question 2

Correct Answer: 1, 3, 4

Epicondylitis is the inflammation of the tendon at its point of origin in the humerus and is also referred to as tennis elbow or golfer's elbow. Initial treatment is conservative and includes administration of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen. The arm may be immobilized by applying an arm splint, and ice may be applied, followed by heat, every 4 hours. Morphine sulfate is not the drug of choice for a patient with epicondylitis. Surgical repair is not indicated this soon before other less drastic measures are employed.