Question

a nurse is caring for a client who is 3 days postoperative following a right total hip arthroplasty. while transferring to a chair, the client cries out in pain. the nurse should examine the client for which of the following manifestations of dislocation of the hip prosthesis?

• bulging in the area over the surgical incision
• shortening of the right leg
• sensation of warmth over the surgical incision
• pallor following elevation of the right leg

Explanation:

To determine the manifestation of hip prosthesis dislocation after total hip arthroplasty:

• Bulging over the incision is more related to hematoma or infection - related swelling, not dislocation.
• Dislocation of the hip prosthesis (especially posterior dislocation, common post - total hip arthroplasty) causes shortening of the affected leg due to the altered position of the femoral head in the acetabulum.
• Warmth over the incision suggests infection or inflammation, not dislocation.
• Pallor on leg elevation is related to vascular issues, not prosthesis dislocation.

Answer:

B. Shortening of the right leg