Question

The nurse has reviewed activity restrictions with a client who is being discharged after insertion of a femoral head prosthesis. What statement by the client will help the nurse determine that the client understands the material presented?

1. Use a raised toilet seat.
2. Bend carefully to put on socks and shoes.
3. Sit in chairs without arms for better mobility.
4. Exercise the leg past the point of 90-degree flexion.

Answer 1

The correct statement indicating the client's understanding of postoperative care after a femoral head prosthesis is 'Use a raised toilet seat' to avoid excessive flexion and potential dislocation of the new hip joint.

Step-by-step explanation:

Understanding postoperative care after the insertion of a femoral head prosthesis, also known as a total hip replacement, is critical for successful recovery and avoiding complications. After a hip replacement surgery, certain movement restrictions are typically advised to prevent dislocation of the new joint and ensure proper healing. The correct statement that indicates the client understands the activity restrictions is: 'Use a raised toilet seat'.

This instruction is important because it helps to maintain the hip at a safe angle post-surgery, avoiding excessive flexion which can lead to dislocation. Bending carefully and exercising the leg past the point of 90-degree flexion are generally discouraged because these actions can put excessive strain on the hip and disrupt the healing process. Furthermore, clients are usually advised to sit in chairs with arms to help with standing up without bending the hip too much, contrary to the option of sitting in chairs without arms.