ATI Clinical Exam Related

Review ATI Clinical Exam related questions and content

A nurse is caring for a patient who is postoperative following a total hip arthroplasty. Which of the following actions should the nurse take to prevent hip dislocation? Which action prevents hip dislocation post-arthroplasty?

  • A. Place the patient in high Fowler's position.
  • B. Keep the patient's legs in adduction.
  • C. Place a pillow between the patient's legs.
  • D. Encourage the patient to flex the hip to 120 degrees.
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Correct Answer: C: Place a pillow between the patient's legs.

Rationale: Placing a pillow between the patient's legs helps maintain proper alignment and prevents the hip from dislocating by keeping the legs in abduction. This position reduces the risk of internal rotation and adduction, which are common movements that can lead to hip dislocation post-arthroplasty.

Summary of Incorrect Choices:
A: Placing the patient in high Fowler's position does not directly address hip dislocation prevention.
B: Keeping the patient's legs in adduction increases the risk of hip dislocation.
D: Encouraging the patient to flex the hip to 120 degrees can also increase the risk of hip dislocation by placing stress on the hip joint.