When bandaging a client’s ankle, the nurse should use which technique of bandaging?

Appeared in: RUHS, Jaipur, PB B.Sc Nursing Entrance-2020

Explanation

The figure-of-eight technique is specifically designed for bandaging joints like the ankle, knee, and elbow.
It involves overlapping turns that alternately ascend and descend, crossing over the joint to form an '8'.
This pattern provides a snug fit, offers excellent support and immobilization, and helps secure dressings over the joint without slipping.
It conforms well to the changing contours of the joint during movement, which other techniques do not.

Option B: The circular technique is not suitable for a joint. It provides insufficient support and can easily become a constricting band if applied over an area with varying circumference or one that flexes.
Option C: The recurrent technique is designed for covering the end of a body part, not for supporting a joint like the ankle.
Option D: While the spiral reverse technique is used for limbs, it is designed for parts with varying circumference (like the calf), not specifically for the flexion point of a joint.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: Use the key finding related to Bandaging techniques to guide bedside assessment, documentation, and the next nursing action.
Proper bandaging technique is a fundamental nursing skill crucial for wound care, injury support, and promoting healing.
Incorrect technique can lead to serious complications, including impaired circulation, skin breakdown, and delayed healing.
A key nursing responsibility is to perform a neurovascular assessment (checking circulation, sensation, and movement) distal to the bandage both before and after application to ensure patient safety.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key elements of the question: the action (bandaging) and the specific body part (ankle).
Recognize that the ankle is a joint. This is the critical piece of information.
Recall or deduce the different types of bandaging techniques and their primary applications.
Match the body part type (joint) with the most appropriate bandaging technique designed for it.
Evaluate the options: 'Figure of eight' is specifically for joints. 'Circular', 'Recurrent', and 'Spiral reverse' are for other body shapes and purposes. This makes 'Figure of eight' the correct choice.

Concept Tested & Keywords

QB0j1icODQanxpSrBUtxY9

E6 Nursing Fundamentals Potter Perry 12e Part 6 pp. 133-135, 134-136

Practise the full RUHS, Jaipur, PB B.Sc Nursing Entrance-2020

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.