Which client assignment is most appropriate for the nurse on an orthopedic unit to assign to a float nurse from a general medical unit?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The client with the cast applied 24-hours ago is stable and is the most appropriate assignment for the float nurse. This client requires the nurse to perform basic pain, peripheral vascular (eg, color, temperature, capillary refill, peripheral pulses, edema), and peripheral neurologic (eg, sensation and motor function) assessments, which should be familiar to a nurse who works on a general medical unit. (Option A) This client is unstable and requires frequent assessments to identify signs and symptoms of infection and changes in neurovascular status (for compartment syndrome). Pin care is needed as well. (Option B) The client waiting to be discharged requires extensive discharge teaching about using a continuous passive motion device, weight-bearing restrictions and assistive devices, anticoagulation prophylaxis, and rehabilitation. (Option C) The client scheduled for an amputation requires preoperative teaching and psychological support specific to this type of surgery (eg, phantom pain, change in body image). Therefore, this client should be assigned to a nurse who is familiar with preparing clients for orthopedic surgery. Educational objective: The nurse on the orthopedic unit, who is giving client assignments to a float nurse, must consider how to best meet the needs of the clients safely. The most appropriate assignment is a stable client, who requires basic pain, peripheral, and neurovascular assessments, which should be familiar to a float nurse from a general medical unit.

Which Client Assignment Is most Appropriate for the Nurse on an Orthopedic