Fundamentals of Nursing Q 317

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The nurse is assessing a patient admitted to the hospital with rectal bleeding. The patient had a hip replacement 2 weeks ago. Which position should the nurse avoid when examining this patient’s rectal area?

  

     A. Sims'

     B. Supine

     C. Dorsal recumbent

     D. Semi-Fowler's

    

    

Correct Answer: A. Sims’

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Sims’ position is typically used to examine the rectal area. However, the position should be avoided if the patient has undergone hip replacement surgery The patient with a hip replacement can assume the supine, dorsal recumbent, or semi-Fowler’s positions without causing harm to the joint.

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Option B: Supine position is lying on the back facing upward. The supine position means lying horizontally with the face and torso facing up, as opposed to the prone position, which is face down. When used in surgical procedures, it allows access to the peritoneal, thoracic, and pericardial regions; as well as the head, neck, and extremities.

Option C: The patient in dorsal recumbent is on his back with knees flexed and soles of feet flat on the bed. A position in which the patient lies on the back with the lower extremities moderately flexed and rotated outward. It is employed in the application of obstetrical forceps, repair of lesions following parturition, vaginal examination, and bimanual palpation.

Option D: In semi-Fowler’s position, the patient is supine with the head of the bed elevated and legs slightly elevated. The Semi-Fowler’s position is a position in which a patient, typically in a hospital or nursing home is positioned on their back with the head and trunk raised to between 15 and 45 degrees, although 30 degrees is the most frequently used bed angle.

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