Lifespan Considerations: Older Adults

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Questions and Answers

What is the purpose of padding bony prominences with soft material when applying a splint?

To enhance the stability of the splint

To prevent pressure wounds (correct)

To reduce swelling

To increase circulation

Why is it important to check circulation distal to an injury after splinting?

To measure the range of motion in the joint

To ensure adequate oxygen supply to the limb (correct)

To assess the effectiveness of the splint

To determine the need for a heavier splint

What is a primary function of traction in a medical setting?

To maintain alignment of bone ends and relieve pain (correct)

To immobilize the joint completely

To facilitate quick recovery from sprains

To prevent any movement of the patient

Which type of traction involves the use of weights applied directly to the skeletal structure?

Skeletal traction Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if tissue below a splint becomes pale, cold, or blue?

Loosen the splint ties to enhance circulation Signup and view all the answers

What is an important consideration when managing the weight used in traction?

Follow the primary care provider's orders for weight adjustments Signup and view all the answers

Which principle is crucial for the effectiveness of traction?

Ropes and weights must be free of friction and entanglements Signup and view all the answers

What position may be ordered to prevent a patient from sliding down in bed during traction?

Slight Trendelenburg position Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of checking assistive devices before use?

To check for structural problems and safety. Signup and view all the answers

What is the first step in using a Continuous Passive Motion (CPM) machine?

Checking the surgeon's order for settings. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to let the CPM machine run through one complete cycle before stopping it?

To ensure the machine is functioning properly. Signup and view all the answers

What should be done to the extremity before attaching it to the CPM machine?

Ensure the dressing is intact. Signup and view all the answers

What is the typical cycle rate setting when operating a CPM machine?

Between 2 to 10 cycles per minute. Signup and view all the answers

How should the CPM machine be positioned on the bed?

Directly on the sheet-covered mattress. Signup and view all the answers

What action should be taken after the CPM machine reaches full flexion?

Stop the machine and check the degree of flexion. Signup and view all the answers

What is a necessary adjustment regarding the bed while using a CPM machine?

Keep the bed flat, raising the head only if necessary. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of elasticized bandages?

To immobilize a joint or apply pressure to reduce swelling Signup and view all the answers

Which bandaging technique is best suited for parts of the body that have a uniform circumference?

Spiral turn Signup and view all the answers

How should the bandage be secured when performing a spiral reverse turn?

With two circular turns and overlapping each turn by two-thirds Signup and view all the answers

What is the correct method for applying figure-of-eight turns?

Overlapping previous turns by one-third to two-thirds width Signup and view all the answers

When using a circular turn, what is its primary function?

To anchor the bandage and terminate the wrap Signup and view all the answers

What should be avoided when bandaging over a major blood vessel?

Applying too much pressure Signup and view all the answers

What adjustment should be made for the spiral reverse turn technique?

Angle the bandage upward at 30 degrees Signup and view all the answers

What is a key characteristic of elastic bandages?

They are made from heavy stretch material that conforms to body parts Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason for washing and drying the area before applying a bandage?

To prevent infection by removing microorganisms Signup and view all the answers

Why is it recommended to elevate the extremity before applying a bandage?

To encourage venous return and prevent swelling Signup and view all the answers

What type of bandaging technique is appropriate for covering the distal parts of the body?

Recurrent turn bandaging technique Signup and view all the answers

What may older adults feel after experiencing a health event that leads to immobility?

Concerns about becoming a burden Signup and view all the answers

How should the bandage be applied in terms of tension?

With smoothness and light to moderate tension Signup and view all the answers

Which type of splint is specifically designed to help control bleeding?

Inflatable splint Signup and view all the answers

What is a crucial step to take after applying a bandage to ensure proper fit?

Assess for fit and circulation distal and proximal to the area bandaged Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of a splint?

To protect an injured body part by immobilizing it Signup and view all the answers

What is a key consideration when applying a splint to an extremity?

Handle the injured part gently and avoid changing its position Signup and view all the answers

Why should metal clips not be used to secure the end of a bandage?

They may come loose and cause injury Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of making two initial circular turns when anchoring a bandage?

To secure the bandage end and prevent loosening Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following splints is used for chronic disorders to maintain functional ability?

Molded splint Signup and view all the answers

What should be done after covering the area with a recurrent turn bandage?

End with two circular turns and secure appropriately Signup and view all the answers

What should be covered on any open wounds before applying a splint?

Anything available that is clean Signup and view all the answers

What materials can be used to create a makeshift splint?

Flat boards or broom handles Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements is true about immobilizers?

They often have Velcro straps and are made of cloth and foam. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Older Adult Considerations

Older adults may experience depression and feel like a burden post-incident (e.g., stroke, hip fracture).
Encouragement, kindness, and family support are vital to restoring their self-worth.
Consulting social services can provide financial assistance and additional resources.

Types of Immobilization

Splints

Splints immobilize an injured body part, serving as first aid before a cast or traction.
Types of splints include:
- Molded splints: Maintain functional position to prevent contracture.
- Immobilizers: Cloth and foam with Velcro, commonly used on knees.
- Inflatable splints: Control bleeding while immobilizing; inflate to 1.5 inches of fingertip indentation.
- Cervical collars: Support neck injuries.
- Traction splints: Used for fractures, requiring traction ropes and weights.

Application of a Splint

Handle the injured area gently to reduce nerve injury and bleeding.
Cover wounds with clean material to prevent infection.
Use rigid materials such as flat boards or broom handles to immobilize the injury.
Ensure splint extends above and below the injury.
Pad bony areas to prevent pressure sores.
Secure the splint firmly and elevate injured parts to reduce swelling.

Traction

Traction uses pulling forces to maintain body parts in extension and alignment; aids realignment and pain relief.
Types of traction include:
- Manual: Physical pulling by caregivers.
- Skin: Adhesive traction via skin.
- Skeletal: Weights applied directly to bones.
Initial heavier weights may be needed to overcome muscle tension, reducing over time as muscles relax.
The bed should be raised no more than 20 degrees to prevent slippage.

Principles of Traction

Ensure ropes and weights are free of friction and entanglements.
Continuous traction is necessary as ordered; do not interrupt during care.
Evaluate assistive devices for structural integrity and proper function.
Assess the patient’s ability to use assistive devices safely.

Continuous Passive Motion (CPM) Machine

Commonly employed after knee surgery; requires careful setup per surgeon's order.
Steps for use include:
- Checking order limits for flexion/extension and speed.
- Connecting and centering the machine appropriately on the bed.
- Ensuring the dressing is intact before use to prevent injury.
- Observing function during operation and adjusting as necessary.

Elastic Bandage Application

Used for immobilization, pressure application, and wound support.
Different bandaging techniques vary based on body part, including:
- Circular turn: Anchors bandage, suitable for fingers/wrists.
- Spiral turn: For uniform parts like arms or legs.
- Figure-of-eight turn: Stabilizes joints like elbows or knees.
- Recurrent turn: Covers distal parts; used for stumps or fingers.

Bandaging Technique

Wash and dry the area before applying a bandage to prevent infections.
Elevate the extremity to promote venous return and reduce swelling.
Secure the bandage with circular turns to prevent loosening.
Ensure even application with light to moderate tension to avoid pressure points.
Check fit and circulation regularly to prevent complications from tight bandaging.

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Description

This quiz addresses the emotional and psychological challenges faced by older adults following debilitating conditions like strokes and hip fractures. It highlights the importance of support from caregivers and family in promoting recovery and improving the quality of life. Understanding these considerations can help improve interactions and care strategies.