Amputation

Question 1

What are the major complications of having an amputation performed?

Answer 1

Infections, skin breakdowns, phantom limb pain, joint contractures

Question 2

What is the positioning for post-op care?

AKA (above the knee) amputation

Answer 2

Elevate first 24 hours, then prone position twice daily to prevent hip flexion

Question 3

BKA (Below the knee) amputation

Answer 3

Elevate foot of bed first 24 hours, then prone position twice daily to prevent hip flexion

Question 4

What should you encourage?

Answer 4

Expressing feelings about lost limb

Question 5

What is phantom limb pain?

Answer 5

Pain felt in an area that has been amputated