Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 80%
Simulated
The nurse is teaching a client who is preparing for discharge from the hospital after a total hip arthroplasty. Which statement by the client indicates the need for further teaching?
Correct answer
D
Rationale
After total hip arthroplasty, there are several measures that the client needs to take to ensure healing and protection and safety to the surgical site. Some hip precautions include not standing or sitting for prolonged periods of time, avoiding crossing the legs beyond the midline of the body, avoiding bending the hips more than 90 degrees, and avoiding twisting the body when standing. The client is also instructed to check the incision site daily for signs of infection (redness, heat, or drainage) and to contact the primary health care provider if signs of infection are noted.