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?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

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.

The Nurse on the Postoperative Inpatient Unit Assesses a Client