Priority Problems
The two priority problems for Mr. Jensen are poor peripheral circulation and pain.
Poor peripheral circulation is present as evidenced by assessment data gathered such as cool extremities, diminished peripheral pulses and swollen leg. In this situation, it may be due to health issues, such as obesity, hypertension or hypercholesterolemia and diabetes which may be all present in the patient considering his history. According to UK GP Research Database, a retrospective study identified Type 2 diabetes as a risk factor for healing complications, regardless of the fracture site. For healing to take place, the site needs adequate stability, good circulation and adequate nutrition. Healing rates vary by person and are …show more content…
Jensen is to ensure that poor peripheral circulation is treated so that detrimental effects will be avoided. So, it is to be expected that within the shift there would be a review of his right leg after thorough assessment to ascertain the peripheral circulation is not compromised.
Poor circulation could be assess through determining if the client is feeling any numbness or pain in the site. In addition, peripheral pulses and oxygen saturation should be checked to detect and escalate the problem as early as possible to avoid adverse complications. With the help of the medical team, medications can be ordered to address the situation or another surgical route would be chosen if deemed necessary.
Whilst for the patient’s pain, its relief should be attained immediately after (30 minutes) of determining the pain through proper pain assessment. Doctor ordered medications and non-drug treatments are available to help manage pain. A combination of treatments and therapies is often more effective than just one. Evidence-based pain management can be examined through an evaluation of patient’s response to a specific and combination of various type of treatments. Understanding the causes of the pain can help reduce the patient’s fear and anxiety hence, patient education is