A nurse is caring for a patient who has had a total hip replacement. The nurse is reviewing health education prior to discharge. Which of the patient's statements would indicate to the nurse that the patient requires further teaching?

Question

A) "I'll need to keep several pillows between my legs at night."
B) "I need to remember not to cross my legs. It's such a habit."
C) "The occupational therapist is showing me how to use a 'sock puller' to help me get dressed."
D) "I will need my husband to assist me in getting off the low toilet seat at home."

Answer 1

Ans: D
Feedback:
To prevent hip dislocation after a total hip replacement, the patient must avoid bending the hips beyond 90 degrees. Assistive devices, such as a raised toilet seat, should be used to prevent severe hip flexion. Using an abduction pillow or placing several pillows between the legs reduces the risk of hip dislocation by preventing adduction and internal rotation of the legs. Likewise, teaching the patient to avoid crossing the legs also reduces the risk of hip dislocation. A sock puller helps a patient get dressed without flexing the hips beyond 90 degrees.