Question

The nurse is evaluating whether patient goals and outcomes have been met for a patient with physical mobility problems due to a fractured leg. Which finding indicates the patient has met an expected outcome?

a. The nurse provides assistance while the patient is walking in the hallways.
b. The patient is able to ambulate in the hallway with crutches.
c. The patient will deny pain while walking in the hallway.
d. The patient's level of mobility will improve.

Answer 1

The best indicator that the patient has met an expected outcome with physical mobility problems due to a fractured leg is if the patient is able to ambulate with crutches, demonstrating increased independence and physical mobility.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question deals with evaluating the outcomes for a patient with physical mobility issues due to a fractured leg. Among the given options, the best indicator that the patient has met an expected outcome is b. The patient is able to ambulate in the hallway with crutches. This reflects an increased level of independence and mobility, which are common goals in the rehabilitation of patients with fractures affecting mobility.

Other options such as the nurse assisting the patient or the patient denying pain do not directly indicate an improvement in physical mobility. The final option, that the patient's level of mobility will improve, is more of an overarching goal rather than a specific, measurable outcome and therefore doesn't indicate that the goal has been met at this time.

Through careful planning and implementation of case management strategies, overcoming barriers to success is critical. Understanding the complexity of mobility and balance can be assessed using subtests like the tandem gait and walking on different parts of the feet, which are indicative of the patient's balance and coordination abilities.