Question

The nurse is assisting a student nurse to wrap a stump. The nurse instructs the student to use the figure-eight technique. The nurse realizes that the main reason this technique is utilized is to prevent what problem? A. Constriction of blood flow B. Immobilization of the joint C. Formation of a decubitus ulcer D. Oozing of blood from the wound

Short answer

Answer: The main reason for using the figure-eight technique when wrapping a stump is to prevent the formation of a decubitus ulcer.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the Figure-Eight Technique

The figure-eight technique is a method used in wrapping a stump to provide proper support and compression. This technique involves crossing the wrap around the limb in a figure-eight pattern, ensuring an even distribution of pressure and avoiding constrictions.

Analyzing the Options

We will go through each option and provide a brief explanation for each. A. Constriction of blood flow: The figure-eight technique helps to maintain proper blood flow by evenly distributing pressure, ensuring that no single point has constricted blood flow. B. Immobilization of the joint: Since we are focusing on wrapping a stump, there is no joint to immobilize. This option is not relevant to this scenario. C. Formation of a decubitus ulcer: A decubitus ulcer, or pressure ulcer, forms due to prolonged pressure on a particular area of the skin. The figure-eight technique helps to distribute pressure evenly, reducing the risk of pressure ulcers. D. Oozing of blood from the wound: The evenly distributed pressure from the figure-eight technique could help minimize bleeding but is not the main reason for using this technique.

Selecting the Most Appropriate Answer

Given the brief explanations for each option, the main reason for using the figure-eight technique when wrapping a stump is to prevent the formation of a decubitus ulcer (Option C). The technique helps to evenly distribute pressure and reduce the risk of pressure ulcers.