University:
West Coast University
Course:
NURS 122 | Introduction to Medical Surgical Nursing
Academic year:

2021
Views:

334

Pages:

3
Author:

Alma Hester

Simulation NR 341/NR 342* Susan Weil 1. What vital nursing assessment data should be gathered on a post-operative elderly patient? What assessment findings may be specific to a hip replacement surgery? When assessing a postoperative elderly patient, it is essential to gather vital signs, signs of bleeding, the patient's pain, signs of infection or any other abnormalities, and overall look. Specific data to assess is post-op bleeding and pain. Although the patient will be in pain after surgery, it should be managed through pharmacological measures. If the patient is still in immense pain, the nurse should contact the physician to figure out other pain management methods. The nurse should also assess the patient's ability to bend/flex ankles, the contractions if they permit. The nurse should also assess pedal pulses. 2. What non-pharmacologic nursing interventions can be used to treat and/or prevent osteoporosis in patients? Consider patient teaching and dietary considerations and comfort measures. Nonpharmacologic interventions include calcium and vitamin D supplementation, weight-bearing exercise, muscle strengthening, diet modification, and fall prevention. Pharmacologic options include bisphosphonates, estrogen therapy, raloxifene, salmon calcitonin, and the anabolic agent teriparatide. Diet modification for osteoporosis: limit caffeine, cola, carbonated beverages, alcohol, and sodium (these affect calcium absorption and limit capacity to get calcium from diet) calcium - dairy products are good sources vitamin D - sunlight/dietary sources often inadequate vitamin K - deficiency increases the risk 1 protein - high intake protects against fracture Soy - contains weak estrogenic principles 3. Describe the major complications that can arise for patients who are post-operative hip injury/replacement. What immediate nursing interventions should the nurse perform for a patient who is experiencing any of the major complications? Complications Anemia dislocation (sudden severe pain, lump in buttock, shortening of limb and external rotation) 50% more likely to experience post-operative delirium than any other surgery; complete CAM assessments and monitor closely urinary retention DVT/PE Infection Atelectasis Nursing Interventions Dislocation: Orthopedic emergency Pain management, support, and protection of the injured joint DVT/PE raise head of the bed O2 therapy Anticoagulants 2 vital signs pulse ox assess pallor or cyanosis cognitive status suctioning Atelectasis: Assist with chest tube insertion or thoracentesis 3