An adolescent patient is prescribed a brace to treat scoliosis. Which assessment finding by the nurse indicates that outcomes for a priority nursing diagnosis have been met by the patient?

Question

A.
Is able to explain the rationale for the bracing
B.
No redness or breakdown seen under the brace
C.
Participates in social activities with friends
D.
Wears brace continuously for 20 hours each day

Answer 1

ANS: B
The skin under the brace worn to treat scoliosis needs to be assessed for breakdown, especially when the brace is new. An important diagnosis would be risk for impaired skin integrity. Seeing no skin breakdown under the brace indicates the outcomes have been met for this goal. Being able to explain the rationale for the bracing and participating in social activities also indicate that outcomes for appropriate diagnoses have been met, but these do not take priority over a possible injury to the child. The brace needs to be worn continuously for 23 hours each day.