Question

A 73-year-old female client had a hemiarthroplasty of the left hip yesterday due to a fracture resulting from a fall. In reviewing hip precautions with the client, which instruction should the nurse include in this client's teaching plan?

a) Cross your legsWhen sitting
b) Avoid internal rotation of the hip
c) Sleep on the operated side
d) Perform high-impact exercises

Answer 1

When teaching hip precautions to a client who had a hip fracture and hemiarthroplasty, the nurse should emphasize avoiding internal rotation of the hip, sleeping on the non-operated side, avoiding crossing the legs, and avoiding high-impact exercises.

Step-by-step explanation:

When reviewing hip precautions with a 73-year-old female client who had a hemiarthroplasty of the left hip due to a fracture, the nurse should instruct the client to avoid internal rotation of the hip. Internal rotation can put stress on the surgical incision and implant, increasing the risk of dislocation. The client should also be taught to sleep on the non-operated side to avoid placing pressure on the surgical site. Crossing the legs should be avoided as well, as it can also increase the risk of dislocation. Finally, the client should be advised to avoid high-impact exercises that can put excessive stress on the artificial hip joint.