Timby's Introductory Medical-Surgical Nursing Thirteenth, North American Edition - Caring for Clients Requiring Orthopedic Treatment Related

Review Timby's Introductory Medical-Surgical Nursing Thirteenth, North American Edition - Caring for Clients Requiring Orthopedic Treatment related questions and content

A patient is scheduled for hip replacement surgery in a month. Which statement made by the client demonstrates understanding for the preoperative instructions?

  • A. I will stop taking my antihypertensive medications prior to my surgery.
  • B. I will stop taking my aspirin prior to my surgery.
  • C. I will have heat packs applied to my hip immediately after surgery.
  • D. I will be able to walk independently when I wake up from surgery.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: If a client is scheduled for joint replacement or other surgery, the client should be instructed to withhold aspirin prior to the surgery as per physician's instructions. The client should not be instructed to withhold antihypertensive medications to avoid a rebound hypertension. Cold packs, not heat packs, will be applied to reduce pain and edema after surgery. The client will require physical therapy after surgery and will not be able to walk until day 2 with assistance.