What action by the perioperative nursing staff is most important ...

[craiczarry]

What action by the perioperative nursing staff is most important to prevent surgical wound infection in a client having a total joint replacement?
 
  a. Administer preoperative antibiotic as ordered.
  b. Assess the client's white blood cell count.
  c. Instruct the client to shower the night before.
  d. Monitor the client's temperature postoperatively.

Question 2

The nurse on the postoperative inpatient unit assesses a client after a total hip replacement. The client's surgical leg is visibly shorter than the other one and the client reports extreme pain. While a co-worker calls the surgeon,
 
  what action by the nurse is best?
  a.
  Assess neurovascular status in both legs.
  b.
  Elevate the affected leg and apply ice.
  c.
  Prepare to administer pain medication.
  d.
  Try to place the affected leg in abduction.

[cam1229]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A
To prevent surgical wound infection, antibiotics are given preoperatively within an hour of surgery. Simply taking a shower will not help prevent infection unless the client is told to use special antimicrobial soap. The other options are processes to monitor for infection, not prevent it.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
This client has manifestations of hip dislocation, a critical complication of this surgery. Hip dislocation can cause neurovascular compromise. The nurse should assess neurovascular status, comparing both legs. The nurse should not try to move the extremity to elevate or abduct it. Pain medication may be administered if possible, but first the nurse should thoroughly assess the client.