A client with a dislocated shoulder is prescribed a shoulder sling. The nurse applies the sling and evaluates the fit before discharge from the emergency room. Which assessment finding indicates an incorrect fit? A)The elbow is flexed at 90 degrees B)The hand is held slightly below elbow level C)The sling ends in the middle of the palm with fingers visible D)The sling supports the wrist

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11ecbb05_cb79_07ef_b433_81ac3a5aff94_MD0009_00 A sling is used to support the shoulder after a fracture, dislocation, injury, or surgery. Commercially made slings are used almost exclusively. They have a sleeve that fits around the injured extremity and extends above the elbow and adjustable straps to provide a snug and comfortable fit around the waist and neck. To prevent injury and provide proper support of the affected extremity, the nurse should evaluate the proper fit of the sling by assessing for the following factors: Elbow is flexed at 90 degrees to support the forearm, prevent swelling, and relieve shoulder pressure (Option A) Hand is held slightly above the level of the elbow, through adjustment of the neck strap, to prevent venous pooling and edema (Option B) Bottom of the sling ends in the middle of the palm with the fingers visible, to be able to assess circulation, sensation, and movement (Option C) Sling supports the wrist joint with the thumb facing upward or inward toward the body, to maintain proper alignment (Option D) Skin irritation, which can occur under the sling and around the neck if the strap is too tight Educational objective: To ensure proper shoulder sling fit, the nurse should assess for the following: Elbow is flexed at 90 degrees Hand is held slightly above the level of the elbow Bottom of the sling ends in the middle of the palm with the fingers visible Sling supports the wrist joint

A Client with a Dislocated Shoulder Is Prescribed a Shoulder