Patient Positioning
What should always be placed under the patient's operative heel when in bed?
An ankle roll should be placed under the heel to prevent pressure ulcers.
What is one thing a patient with a total hip replacement (anterior) must avoid when sitting or standing?
The patient must NOT extend their hip behind them.
When should ice packs on the operative site be refreshed?
Every 4 hours or as needed.
Name one item needed for postoperative room setup.
Recliner, footstool, walker, bedside commode, incentive spirometer, or oxygen tubing (if needed).
What is the first step in helping a patient transfer to a bed, chair, or toilet?
Ensure the walker is nearby, and the patient is positioned correctly before attempting the transfer.
What position should a patient's bed be in after a knee replacement?
Lock out the knee and foot of bed
Bottom of bed should NEVER be bent
What is the maximum forward leaning angle allowed for a patient with hip precautions?
Patients cannot lean forward past 90 degrees to avoid hip dislocation.
What should you monitor when emptying a JP or Hemovac drain?
Amount, color, and consistency of the drainage.
What piece of equipment is used to assist a patient with breathing exercises?
Incentive spirometer.
Why should a patient never pull themselves up using a walker?
The walker can tip, leading to a fall or injury.
When assisting a patient to sit or stand, where should the operative leg be positioned?
The operative leg should be slid out in front of them to reduce strain and maintain alignment.
How do you prevent a patient from crossing their legs while in a chair?
A pillow should be placed between their legs to maintain proper hip alignment.
What is the threshold for reporting excessive drain output?
Greater than 250 mL.
Why is oxygen tubing included in the postoperative room setup checklist?
Some patients may require oxygen support to maintain adequate oxygen saturation levels.
How should the bed height be adjusted during a transfer to a chair or toilet?
The bed should be raised if needed to reduce the distance the patient must lower themselves.
Describe the correct way to assist a patient with log-rolling out of bed.
The patient should roll as a unit, keeping their spine straight, then use their arms to push up while their legs lower to the floor.
What is the purpose of the abduction pillow for a total hip replacement patient?
It keeps the legs separated and prevents excessive movement that could lead to dislocation.
How often should neurovascular checks be performed postoperatively?
Every 4 hours.
What is the purpose of elevating a patient's heels while they are in bed?
To prevent pressure ulcers and improve circulation.
Describe the correct technique for assisting a patient to stand up using armrests.
The patient should push up from the armrests (or bed), keeping their operative leg extended in front of them.
Why is it important to position a spinal patient’s bottom as far back as possible in the chair?
This ensures proper spinal alignment, reduces strain, and provides back support, improving comfort and stability.
What specific movements must a total hip replacement (anterior) patient avoid when ambulating?
They must avoid hip extension, leg crossing, twisting the leg outward, and turning their operative leg inward.
What are signs of compromised extremity circulation?
Pallor, cold temperature, decreased sensation, numbness, or weak pulses.
Describe the purpose of a Sequential Compression Device (SCD) in postoperative care.
It helps prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT) by promoting circulation in the lower extremities.
How do you ensure the safety of the operative leg during a transfer?
Slide the leg forward before standing, support it during movement, and never allow twisting or excessive bending.