Total hip replacement / arthroplasty Flashcards
which traction is used frequently pre-op to immobilize the hip?
buck’s traction (skin traction)
what must we do post-op?
do neuro-vascular checks
anytime you have someone with an orthopedic thing, they need a ___ matress
firm;
to support the joints (true for arthritis, ortho injuries..etc!)
if they have any drains, we need to monitor it. why?
make sure they are not clogged because if fluid is not coming out, compartment syndrome may occur
why is an over-bed trapeze good for?
it will help build upper body strength
How should they be positioned post-op?
neutral position (toes pointed to the ceiling) it keeps the hips from rotating (may cause hip dislocation)
we want to limit flexion (bending of knee) why?
it can make the hip pop out; we want extension (legs straight)
can they bend over to tie their shoe?
no; it’s flexing the hip/knee
when you’re taking the patient to the bathroom post op, always keep you hand on the____ side to remind them not to flex it.
affected
do you want abduction or adduction?
abduction; legs apart (need abductor pillow to keep it in the acetabulum)
what exercise can the patient do while still confined to bed?
Isometrics (squeezing the glutes and quads) this helps to increase venous return and decrease DVT
what is the purpose of the trochanter roll? *can be a rolled up towel and place it along the greater trochanter*
to prevent external rotation (prevent the leg/foot from flipping outwardly)
should you document the presence of the trochanter roll in your nurses’s notes?
yes
When can the patient bare weight after a hip arthroplasty?
when ordered by the doctor
avoid doing what post-op?
- avoid crossing legs
- avoid bending over
