A 30-year-old client who had an amputation of his left leg above the knee complains that he often feels the presence of the absent body part. He occasionally experiences pain and an itching sensation over the amputated portion of the leg

The client is diagnosed with phantom limb pain. What nursing measures and client teaching must the nurse employ when caring for this client? A) Explain that the condition is rare and occurs because of infections.
B) Instruct the client to ask for pain medication, if needed.
C) Explain that the condition does not interfere with prosthetic fitting.
D) Encourage the client to place a pillow under the stump when sleeping.


B
Feedback:
Clients experiencing phantom limb pain are generally instructed to ask for pain medication, if needed, to obtain relief from pain and discomfort. Phantom limb pain is a common condition and results from damage to the nerves in the stump and not from infections. Persistent pain and discomfort can interfere with prosthetic fitting. The client should be told not to use a pillow under the stump when sleeping to prevent hip contractures following amputation.

Nursing

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