Question

a nurse is developing a care plan for a client with a partial-thickness burn, and determines that an appropriate goal is to maintain position of joints in alignment. what is the best rationale for this intervention?

Answer 1

Maintaining joint alignment in burn patients is essential to prevent contractures, facilitate healing, and restore functionality. A physical therapy plan that incorporates heat, targeted exercises, and icing is employed for optimal recovery and regain of normal physical activity levels.

Step-by-step explanation:

The rationale for maintaining position of joints in alignment during the development of a care plan for a client with a partial-thickness burn is critical to the healing process and the prevention of contractures, which are the tightening and shortening of the skin that can lead to a decrease in the range of motion. By keeping joints in their proper alignment, the appropriate physical therapy plan can be established to promote optimal recovery. This often includes methods such as applying heat packs to enhance blood flow and healing, followed by targeted exercises and icing to decrease inflammation and swelling over several weeks.

Throughout the recovery process, the physical therapist will closely monitor the patient's progress and adjust the exercises accordingly, ensuring the gradual return of normal limb function and range of motion. Ultimately, the final goal is to help the patient get back to their normal level of physical activity with a fully functional shoulder or other affected joint.