Fundamentals of Nursing Q 78
An 85-year-old male patient has been bedridden for two weeks. Which of the following complaints by the patient indicates to the nurse that he is developing a complication of immobility?
A. Stiffness of the right ankle joint.
B. Soreness of the gums.
C. Short-term memory loss.
D. Decreased appetite.
Correct Answer: A. Stiffness of the right ankle joint.
Stiffness of a joint may indicate the beginning of contracture and/or early muscle atrophy. In the development of joint contractures that result from long-term immobilization, shortening of the joint capsule, synovial adhesions and arthrofibrosis play decisive roles and may present as a generalized joint stiffness
Option B: Soreness of the gums is not related to immobility. Brushing too hard, improper flossing techniques, infection, or gum disease can cause sore and sensitive gums. Other causes unrelated to oral hygiene could include Vitamin K deficiency, hormonal changes during pregnancy, leukemia, or blood disorders.
Option C: Short-term memory loss is not related to immobility. Short-term memory loss is when one forgets things they heard, saw, or did recently. It’s a normal part of getting older for many people. But it can also be a sign of a deeper problem, such as dementia, a brain injury, or a mental health issue.
Option D: Decreased appetite is unlikely to be related to immobility. People can experience a loss of appetite for a wide range of reasons. Some of these are short-term, including colds, food poisoning, other infections, or the side effects of medication. Others are to do with long-term medical conditions, such as diabetes, cancer, or life-limiting illnesses.