A nurse is caring for an elderly client with an upper extremity ...

[faduma]

A nurse is caring for an elderly client with an upper extremity fracture. Which of the following therapies is more commonly used with elderly clients than with younger adults to treat fractures of the upper extremities?
 
  A) Traction
  B) An external fixator
  C) Immobilization
  D) Acupressure

Question 2

A nurse is caring for a client after internal fixation of a compound fracture in the tibia. The nurse finds that the client has not had his dinner, seems restless, and is tossing on the bed.
 
  Keeping in mind that the client is a Latino, what is the most appropriate response by the nurse? A) Are you having pain in your leg?
  B) Tell me what you are feeling.
  C) Do you need pain medication?
  D) Are you feeling alright?

[ong527]

Answer to Question 1

C
Feedback:
Some fractures, particularly of the upper extremities, are treated nonsurgically with immobilization. Occupational and physical therapists are helpful in assisting older adults to regain function and range of motion following any period of immobilization in order to prevent a decrease in or permanent loss of function. An external fixator is a metal device surgically inserted into and through the broken bones of a client to stabilize fragments during healing. Traction is a treatment measure for musculoskeletal trauma and disorders. Acupressure and massage may not be suitable to treat fractures of the upper extremities among elderly clients as they may lead to further complication and injury. Both acupressure and massage involve exertion of physical pressure on the different parts of the body by hand, elbow, or with the aid of various devices.

Answer to Question 2

B
Feedback:
The nurse should ask the client to tell the nurse what he is feeling. Asking open-ended questions would encourage the client to verbalize his pain. Latino men may not demonstrate their feelings or readily discuss their symptoms because they may interpret doing so as being less than manly. Closed-ended questions like Are you having pain?; Do you need pain medication?; and Are you feeling alright? may block communication and the client may not express his feelings.

[faduma]

Excellent

[debra928]

Gracias!