Trochanter roll is used to?

GMCH Chandigarh - 2022

Fundamental of Nursing

Easy

Appeared in: GMCH Chandigarh - 2022

Explanation

A trochanter roll is specifically designed to counteract the natural tendency of the legs to rotate outwards (externally) when a patient is lying flat (recumbent/supine).
This is particularly important for patients with muscle weakness, paralysis, or those recovering from hip surgery, where maintaining neutral alignment is crucial.
The device, as shown in the image, is placed along the lateral side of the thigh to provide support and physically block the outward movement of the femur.
The goal is to keep the hip and leg in a neutral position, with the patella (kneecap) facing directly upward, which prevents strain and the development of contractures.

Option A: The primary problem in immobile, supine patients is external rotation (leg falling outward), not internal rotation. Therefore, a device to prevent internal rotation is not typically needed.
Option C: A trochanter roll is a positioning aid for bedridden (recumbent) patients. It is not used when a patient is standing.
Option D: While preventing external rotation is the correct action, a trochanter roll is only used when the patient is in a recumbent (lying down) position, not standing.

Visual 1: Diagram - The provided image clearly illustrates the placement of a trochanter roll alongside the patient's thigh to keep the leg in a neutral position, preventing it from falling outward.
Visual 2: Infographic - A chart comparing different positioning aids (Trochanter Roll, Abduction Pillow, Footboard, Hand Roll) with images and their specific purposes would be beneficial for learning.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Use of Trochanter Roll for Patient Positioning as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Proper use of a trochanter roll is a key nursing intervention to prevent external rotation contractures, which are permanent shortenings of muscles and tendons that can limit mobility and cause pain.
This is critical for patients with neurological deficits (e.g., stroke, spinal cord injury) or those on prolonged bed rest, as it helps maintain proper body alignment and facilitates future rehabilitation.
Nursing Responsibility: When using a trochanter roll, the nurse must regularly assess the underlying skin for signs of pressure or breakdown, especially over the greater trochanter, and reposition the patient at least every two hours.

How to Approach the Question

Step 1: Identify the key term in the question, which is 'Trochanter roll'. Recall or deduce its function as a positioning aid.
Step 2: Analyze the options based on two variables: the patient's position (recumbent vs. standing) and the type of rotation (internal vs. external).
Step 3: Eliminate options related to the 'standing position'. A trochanter roll is a device for a patient who is lying in bed.
Step 4: Differentiate between internal and external rotation. Remember that for an immobile patient in a supine position, gravity and muscle weakness cause the leg to fall outward (external rotation).
Step 5: Conclude that the purpose of the trochanter roll is to prevent this outward movement, thus selecting the option for 'preventing external rotation' in a 'recumbent position'.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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