Author Question: The nurse is caring for a patient with impaired physical mobility. Which potential complications ... (Read 107 times)

nautica902 · **on:** Jul 22, 2018

The nurse is caring for a patient with impaired physical mobility. Which potential complications will the nurse monitor for in this patient? (Select all that apply.)

a. Footdrop
b. Somnolence
c. Hypostatic pneumonia
d. Impaired skin integrity
e. Increased socialization

Question 2

The nurse is caring for a patient who has had a recent stroke and is paralyzed on the left side. The patient has no respiratory or cardiac issues but cannot walk.

The patient cannot button a shirt and cannot feed self due to being left-handed and becomes frustrated very easily. The patient has been eating very little and has lost 2 lbs. The patient asks the nurse, How can I go home like this? I'm not getting better. Which health care team members will the nurse need to consult? (Select all that apply.)
a. Dietitian
b. Physical therapist
c. Respiratory therapist
d. Cardiac rehabilitation therapist
e. Occupational therapist
f. Psychologist

Eazy416 · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 22, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A, C, D
Immobility leads to complications such as hypostatic pneumonia. Other possible complications include footdrop and impaired skin integrity. Interruptions in the sleep-wake cycle and social isolation are more common complications than somnolence or increased socialization.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A, B, E, F
Physical therapists are a resource for planning ROM or strengthening exercises, and occupational therapists are a resource for planning ADLs that patients need to modify or relearn. Because of the loss of 2 lbs and eating very little, a dietitian will also be helpful. Referral to a mental health advanced practice nurse, a licensed social worker, or a physiologist to assist with coping or other psychosocial issues is also wise. Because the patient exhibits good cardiac and respiratory function, respiratory therapy and cardiac rehabilitation probably are not needed at this time.