Extra positions Flashcards
Possible consequences related to positioning are:
Impaired skin integrity, compromised respiratory effort, altered tissue perfusion, neuromuscular and muscoskeletal injury
When patient is properly positioned:
When patient is properly positioned the surgeon will have optimal access to the surgical site, and the patient will not suffer injury
Basic positions used for surgery:
Supine, lithotomy, sitting, prone, lateral
Why is the Anaesthetised pt at greater risk of positioning related injury?
the normal defence of pain can’t warn about exaggerated twisting, stretching, compression of body parts.
What is one of the more common nerve injuries?
Brachial plexus nerve injury
What is a way to minimise pressure on the Brachial plexus?
Turn patients head towards the extended arm
When should shoulder braces be used?
Only when absolutely necessary, with adequate padding
What positions can the Brachial plexus be injured in?
Supine, Trendleburgh
What are the symptoms of damage to the ulnar nerve?
Tingling, pain, and numbness in the fourth and fifth fingers. Severe injury can result in a weak grip on contractures “claw hand”
When is the Perennial nerve at risk of injury?
lithotomy position
When can injury to sciatic nerve occur, whats the symptoms?
When nerve is compressed or stretched, results in foot drop
What causes integumentary injuries?
friction, shearing and pressure
Procedures in supine position:
Abdominal surgeries, those that require an anterior approach. Head, neck, and most extremity surgery
Areas most at risk of pressure ulcer formation:
Heels, elbows, scapulae, sacrum and coccyx
