A nurse is contributing to the plan of care for a client who is at risk for developing foot drop due to immobility. Which of the following interventions should the nurse recommend to include in the plan?
A.
Flex the client’s feet using pillows.
B.
Support the client’s feet with foot boots.
C.
Place a hand roll under the client’s heels.
D.
Remove ankle-foot orthotic devices at bedtime.
The correct answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is B. Support the client’s feet with foot boots.
Explanation:
Foot drop is a condition where a person has difficulty lifting the front part of their foot, which can lead to an increased risk of tripping and falls. This condition is commonly associated with immobility, and preventing it is crucial in the care of clients who are at risk due to prolonged bed rest or other factors.
Foot boots, also known as ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs), are devices designed to keep the foot in a neutral position, preventing plantar flexion (pointing downwards) and thereby helping to manage or prevent foot drop. They provide support and help maintain the proper alignment of the foot and ankle, which is essential in preventing complications related to immobility.
Here’s why the other options are less effective or incorrect:
- A. Flex the client’s feet using pillows: While positioning pillows to flex the feet might offer some temporary comfort, it does not provide the structural support needed to prevent foot drop. This approach might not maintain the foot in the proper alignment over extended periods.
- C. Place a hand roll under the client’s heels: Hand rolls are used to prevent contractures in the hands and are not appropriate for addressing issues related to foot drop. Placing a roll under the heels could actually exacerbate the problem by not supporting the foot correctly.
- D. Remove ankle-foot orthotic devices at bedtime: This would be counterproductive. AFOs should be worn as recommended by a healthcare provider, typically throughout the day and night if specified. Removing them at bedtime would result in the foot not being supported during the night, potentially worsening the foot drop.
In summary, supporting the client’s feet with foot boots (option B) is the most effective intervention for managing or preventing foot drop in a client at risk due to immobility.