Question

Which nursing action is appropriate when the skin under the elastic bandage breaks?

A) Assess the pulse in the affected area

B) Palpate the extremity for signs of injury

C) Reapply the bandage over the same area with less pressure

D) Reapply the bandage at a different area with less pressure

Answer 1

The correct nursing action when skin under an elastic bandage breaks is to reapply the bandage at a different area with less pressure, while assessing the pulse and checking for further injury. Watching for increased redness, swelling, and pain is important to prevent and identify infection.

Step-by-step explanation:

When the skin under an elastic bandage breaks, it is crucial to address the issue immediately to prevent further injury or complications. The appropriate nursing action in this case would be to reapply the bandage at a different area with less pressure (Option D). This helps to reduce the risk of additional skin damage and allows for continued support or compression as needed. Before reapplying the bandage, you should also assess the pulse in the affected area to ensure there is no circulatory compromise, and palpate the extremity for signs of injury to gauge the extent of the damage.

Moreover, it is important to watch for increased redness, swelling, and pain after a cut or abrasion has been cleaned and bandaged because these could be signs of an infection or an allergic reaction. Infection can delay healing and may spread to other parts of the body if left unchecked. Proper monitoring and care are essential to ensure that a simple abrasion doesn't turn into a more serious health concern.