The office nurse for an orthopedic health care provider receives 4 telephone messages. Which client does the nurse call back first?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The nurse should call the client with the knee replacement first. Cramping calf pain can indicate the presence of a deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which can occur following joint replacement surgery despite prophylactic anticoagulation. This symptom needs immediate intervention with diagnostic testing (eg, venous Doppler study) as a venous embolus can lead to a pulmonary embolus, which is potentially life-threatening. (Option B) Itching is to be expected due to drying of the skin under the cast. The nurse can suggest directing the air from a hair dryer on a cool setting under the cast to help relieve itching. This is not a potentially life-threatening event. (Option C) This client is most likely using the crutches incorrectly or they are not fitted correctly. Pressure on the ulna or radial nerves can lead to numbness and tingling of the fingers and hand weakness. This symptom needs intervention, but it is not potentially life-threatening. (Option D) Pain and swelling are to be expected with an anterior cruciate ligament injury and are treated with RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation) for 24-48 hours. Pain and a feeling of tightness can indicate an effusion that may require aspiration, but the condition is not potentially life-threatening. Educational objective: Cramping calf pain following joint replacement surgery can indicate the presence of a venous thrombosis and needs immediate intervention with diagnostic testing as the condition is potentially life-threatening.

The Office Nurse for an Orthopedic Health Care Provider Receives