A nurse is caring for a client who underwent Total Hip Arthroplasty (THA) with the nursing diagnosis of impaired physical mobility related to pain and fear of movement. Which of following interventions are appropriate to address the client’s problem? 

Explanation

• Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is a procedure whereby the diseased articular surfaces of the hip are replaced with synthetic materials, thus relieving pain and improving joint kinematics and function. All THAs consist of a femoral component, an acetabular component, and a bearing surface.

• A gait belt applied to the client’s waist will help with transfer allowing the nurse to help with standing and transfer without risk of self-injury.

• Placing the walker directly in front of the client sets it ready for use once the client is standing. However, the walker should not be used to help the client to a standing position because it is not stable.

• Increasing pain at the wound site is a possible manifestation of deep infection. It is important to immediately report this manifestation to the physician in order to treat right away any postsurgical infection. Treating the cause of the pain will help with physical mobility concerns.

• Flexing and extending the client’s toes helps the nurse to determine if the client has compartment syndrome. This intervention can best address problem of risk for peripheral neurovascular dysfunction.

• Oral hygiene does not address the patient's mobility.

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