The nurse is caring for a client who recently experienced a traumatic amputation of the left leg just below the knee due to a crushing injury at work while he was taking a smoke break

Question

The nurse shows an understanding of this client's condition when acknowledging that: Select all that apply. 1. The client's report of pain in the area of the amputated foot is real.
2. Nerve regeneration to a reattached lower limb usually results in poor function.
3. Smoking is a significant risk factor for reattachment of limbs.
4. The recovery period for a limb reattachment would be similar to one for a surgical amputation.
5. Crushing injuries are usually suitable for reattachment of the limb.

Answer 1

1. The client's report of pain in the area of the amputated foot is real.
2. Nerve regeneration to a reattached lower limb usually results in poor function.
3. Smoking is a significant risk factor for reattachment of limbs.

Rationale: The client's report of pain in the area of the amputated foot is real. The patient may have bizarre sensations, such as feeling like the absent foot is cold or itchy. These are called phantom limb sensations. Nerve regeneration to a reattached lower limb usually results in poor function. Surgical reattachment of a severed limb is done only under certain circumstances because the surgery is difficult. For adults, it is nearly impossible for nerves to regenerate in the lower extremity, and the reattached limb may be painful and dysfunctional. Smoking is a significant risk factor for reattachment of limbs. Only cleanly separated traumatic amputations in patients without significant risk factors for impaired healing such as smoking are considered for reattachment. The recovery period for a limb reattachment would be similar to one for a surgical amputation. Complete amputation and prosthesis could allow a patient to return to normal activities in days to weeks, whereas reconstruction of mangled limbs can span over years, with a huge psychological strain and impact on function and occupation. Crushing injuries are usually suitable for reattachment of the limb. Reattachment in crush-type amputations is not attempted due to the poor outcome.