Certified Rehabilitation Registered Nurse (CRRN) Practice Exam

What is the FIRST indicator of peripheral nerve impairment in a hip replacement patient?

1. Weakness in the affected limb

2. Paresthesia

3. Severe pain in the joint

4. Loss of range of motion

The correct answer is: Paresthesia

The first indicator of peripheral nerve impairment in a hip replacement patient is often the presence of paresthesia. Paresthesia refers to abnormal sensations such as tingling, prickling, or "pins and needles" often felt in the affected area. This symptom arises when nerves are compromised or irritated, signaling potential nerve damage or dysfunction early on in the recovery process. In the context of a hip replacement, if a patient experiences paresthesia, it can indicate that the surgical procedure may have affected the surrounding nerves or that they are not functioning optimally. Prompt recognition of paresthesia can lead to timely interventions to prevent further complications related to nerve impairment. While weakness, pain, and loss of range of motion are important symptoms to assess post-operatively, they generally occur after the initial signs of nerve involvement. Therefore, recognizing paresthesia as the first indicator of peripheral nerve impairment is crucial for early diagnosis and management.