Question

A home health nurse is reviewing the medical record of a client who had an open reduction internal fixation of the tibia. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as a risk factor for impaired would healing?

a.The client's hemoglobin is 15 g/dL.
b.The client's peripheral pulses are +3 distal to the affected extremity.
c.The client consumes 1,000 kcal daily.
d.The client takes zinc supplements.

Answer 1

Zinc supplements are not considered a risk factor for impaired wound healing; they are actually beneficial for the healing process. The nurse should instead look for other factors such as advanced age, drug therapy, and pre-existing bone disease, which may affect the healing of the client's tibia.

Step-by-step explanation:

The home health nurse reviewing the medical record of a client who underwent an open reduction internal fixation of the tibia should be aware that zinc supplements are not typically a risk factor for impaired wound healing. In fact, zinc plays a crucial role in the body's healing process, especially for wounds. The client taking zinc supplements should not present a risk factor, but instead may contribute to the healing process.

Instead, when evaluating factors that could impede wound healing, the nurse should consider issues such as age, the type of drug therapy the client may be undergoing, and any pre-existing bone diseases like osteoporosis or bone cancer, as these can slow down healing or increase the likelihood of fractures.

It is also essential to monitor for symptoms such as increased redness, swelling, and pain around the wound, as these could indicate an infection or complications after surgery. The risk of these complications can increase in elderly individuals who have reduced mobility and poor air exchange due to prolonged bed rest, leading to pneumonia, pressure sores, and potentially life-threatening blood clots.