Question

The nurse realizes that the nursing assistant needs further teaching if she observes the nursing assistant: A. Walking the postoperative client with leg pain B. Bathing the client using soap and water C. Changing the bed of the client in traction from top to bottom D. Feeding the client using a disposable spoon and fork

Short answer

Answer: Changing the bed of the client in traction from top to bottom (Option C).

Step-by-step solution

Analyze each option for appropriate patient care practices.

Begin by analyzing each of the given options in regards to acceptable patient care practices. A. Walking the postoperative client with leg pain: This action can be considered appropriate as it is essential for postoperative patients to promote blood circulation and avoid complications. However, it is also essential to monitor the pain level. B. Bathing the client using soap and water: This is a standard and appropriate practice, as maintaining proper hygiene is essential for clients. C. Changing the bed of the client in traction from top to bottom: This seems inappropriate regarding patients in traction, as it may cause complications or exacerbate existing issues. Proper handling and care are necessary for patients in traction, such as using draw sheets and asking for assistance. D. Feeding the client using a disposable spoon and fork: This is a sanitary approach and acceptable for feeding clients.

Identify the correct answer.

Based on the analysis in Step 1, we can conclude that option C (Changing the bed of the client in traction from top to bottom) is the action that indicates the nursing assistant needs further training and understanding of proper patient care for patients in traction. Therefore, the correct answer is C.

Key concepts

Nursing Assistant Education

Nursing assistants play a vital role in healthcare, providing support to nurses and helping to ensure patient comfort and safety. A well-rounded education for nursing assistants should cover a variety of essential skills and knowledge. This includes areas such as basic patient care practices, emergency procedures, and understanding medical terminologies. Training often involves both classroom learning and practical, hands-on experience.

• Understanding patient rights and confidentiality is crucial.
• Proper communication skills help in relaying information accurately to nurses and other healthcare providers.
• An understanding of medical basics, like taking vital signs and understanding wound care, is necessary.

Nursing assistants must be prepared to adapt to different situations and to acquire continuous learning to deal with healthcare's evolving nature.

Patient Care Practices

Patient care practices are fundamental aspects of healthcare involving the provision of care that is safe, effective, and compassionate. These practices ensure patients receive the best possible care tailored to their individual needs and conditions.

• It includes maintaining a clean and safe environment to prevent infections and ensure patient comfort.
• Observation skills are vital to monitor patient conditions and report changes.
• Implementing personal hygiene routines, like bathing and grooming, greatly benefits patient well-being.

Practices should also focus on promoting activities that encourage patient mobility and independence, particularly in postoperative settings.

Postoperative Care

Postoperative care involves monitoring and supporting patients recovering from surgery. The goal is to facilitate recovery, manage pain, and prevent complications.

• Careful monitoring of vital signs is essential to detect potential complications early.
• Pain management should be prioritized, utilizing medications or alternative techniques as needed.
• Mobility is encouraged to prevent complications such as blood clots or pneumonia. Hence, walking with supervision is often recommended.

Each patient's postoperative care plan should be tailored to their specific needs and the type of surgery they underwent.

Patient Hygiene

Maintaining patient hygiene is a crucial aspect of patient care that prevents infections and promotes dignity and comfort. Proper hygiene practices depend on the patient's condition and involve bathing, grooming, and oral care.

• Using appropriate cleaning agents and techniques ensures cleanliness without compromising skin integrity.
• Patient comfort and privacy should always be prioritized during hygiene routines.
• In cases where patients are immobile, adjustments, like using no-rinse products, may be necessary.

Good hygiene practices help in improving the patient's overall comfort and are a foundational element of safe patient care.

Traction Patient Care

Caring for patients in traction requires specific knowledge and techniques to prevent complications and aid recovery. Traction is used to immobilize fractures and maintain proper alignment during the healing process.

• Regular inspection of traction equipment ensures it is functioning correctly.
• Care must be taken to maintain skin integrity to prevent pressure sores.
• Positioning must be meticulous to avoid discomfort and ensure effective traction.

Assistance is often needed in tasks such as bed making or moving the patient, which should be done carefully to avoid disturbing the traction setup. Proper education and techniques can significantly impact the recovery and comfort of patients in traction.