A patient arrived at the emergency department after tripping over ...

[bobbie]

A patient arrived at the emergency department after tripping over a rug and falling at home. Which finding is most important for the nurse to communicate to the health care provider?
 
  a. There is bruising at the shoulder area.
  b. The patient reports arm and shoulder pain.
  c. The right arm appears shorter than the left.
  d. There is decreased shoulder range of motion.

Question 2

Which nursing action for a patient who has had right hip replacement surgery can the nurse delegate to experienced unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP)?
 
  a. Reposition the patient every 1 to 2 hours.
  b. Assess for skin irritation on the patient's back.
  c. Teach the patient quadriceps-setting exercises.
  d. Determine the patient's pain level and tolerance.

[Chelseyj.hasty]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
A shorter limb after a fall indicates a possible dislocation, which is an orthopedic emergency. Bruising, pain, and decreased range of motion also should be reported, but these do not indicate that emergent treatment is needed to preserve function.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
Repositioning of orthopedic patients is within the scope of practice of UAP (after they have been trained and evaluated in this skill). The other actions should be done by licensed nursing staff members.

[bobbie]

Thanks for the timely response, appreciate it

[tuate]

Great answer, keep it coming