2: Amputation Key Impairments and Interventions Flashcards
What are the two main purposes of pt positioning?
- Prevent the development of joint contractures while considering comfort and function
- Minimize edema
What are the four positions we consider to prevent contractures and minimize edema?
Supine, prone, sidelying, sitting
What are four general considerations for pt positioning?
- Do not put pressure on healing surgical sites or wounds on residual limb
- Change positions at least every two hours
- Positions should vary during the day
- Must teach patient and caregiver proper positioning
How long can volume fluctuate in the residual limb following amputation?
12-18 months
What are common contractures following an transtibial amputation?
Hip: flexion, abduction, ER
Knee: flexion
What are common contractures following a transfemoral amputation?
Hip: flexion, abduction, ER
What are causes of contractures of the LE?
Poor positioning, prolonged sitting, wheelchair use
What are consequences of contractures developing in the LE?
Functional leg length discrepancy, poor prosthetic alignment
How do you manage the development of contractures in the LE?
Appropriate positioning, ambulation, prosthetic modification, casts, surgical release
What are common contractures that can develop with a transhumeral amputation?
GH: flexion, adduction, IR
What are common contractures that can develop with a transradial amputation?
GH: flexion, adduction, IR
Elbow: flexion
What are the 7 functions of post-op dressings?
- Control edema
- Pain control
- Enhance wound healing and absorb drainage
- Protect incision during functional activities
- Shape and desensitize residual limb
- Allow for early weight bearing
- Acclimate pt to caring for the residual limb
What are the three types of post-op dressings?
Rigid, semi-rigid, soft
Describe the two types of rigid post-op dressings
Removable: applied over soft dressings
Non-removable: application of rigid cast
What are advantages of a rigid post-op dressing?
Allow for early ambulation with pylon, promote circulation and healing, stimulation proprioception, soft tissue support, limit edema, utilize IPOP
What are disadvantages of a rigid post-op dressing?
Immediate wound inspection is not always possible, does not allow for daily dressing changes, requires professional application
What are complications that care result from a rigid post-op dressing?
Infection, damage to wound, pressure or traction from pistoning
Describe semi-rigid post-op dressings
Better edema control that soft, but not as good as rigid dressings, unna paste, air splint, specialized gauze with zinc oxide
How wide is the bandage typically for a semi-rigid post-op dressing?
4”
What are advantages of semi-rigid post-op dressings?
Reduce edema, provide soft tissue support, provide protections, easily changeable
What are disadvantages of semi-rigid post-op dressings?
Does not protect as well as rigid, requires more changing than rigid, may loosen and allow for development of edema
What would you use a soft post-op dressing?
If the pt is at high risk for infection so it would allow for easy wound inspection
What are the two types of soft post-op dressings?
Elastic/ace wraps and shrinkers
What is the purpose of using soft dressings?
Control edema and promote ideal shape of the residual limb and stable volume to allow for receipt and use of prosthesis
When would you chose to use a residual limb shrinker?
Once a more consistent volume is reached