In caring for a patient with an external fixator device, the nurse will do which of the following?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Cleansing pin sites is essential in preventing infection, which can lead to serious complications such as osteomyelitis. Adjusting the tension on the pins is not within the nurse's scope of practice and can cause further harm to the patient. Bathing in a tub is not recommended while the external fixator is in place due to the risk of infection. Patients may resume bathing after the device is removed and the pin sites have fully healed. It is important for the patient to move the limb gently to prevent stiffness but remain still to prevent dislodgment of the device.

In Caring for a Patient with an External Fixator Device