For a client with a below-knee amputation, which teaching point is essential for stump care?

For a client with a below-knee amputation, which teaching point is essential for stump care?

• A. Use a shrinker stocking or sock to cover the wrapped stump.
• B. Soak the stump in hot water daily
• C. Apply scented lotion to the stump
• D. Expose the stump to direct sunlight

Answer: (A)

After a below-knee amputation, keeping the residual limb compressed and shaped is essential for successful prosthetic fitting. Wearing a shrinker stocking or sock over the wrapped stump provides constant, even pressure that reduces swelling (edema) and helps mold the stump into a smooth, cylindrical shape. This improves prosthesis fit and comfort and speeds up the fitting process. Other options undermine skin health or safety. Soaking the stump in hot water can burn fragile skin and cause breakdown. Applying scented lotion can irritate the skin or hide early irritation. Exposing the stump to direct sunlight increases the risk of sunburn and skin damage.

After a below-knee amputation, keeping the residual limb compressed and shaped is essential for successful prosthetic fitting. Wearing a shrinker stocking or sock over the wrapped stump provides constant, even pressure that reduces swelling (edema) and helps mold the stump into a smooth, cylindrical shape. This improves prosthesis fit and comfort and speeds up the fitting process.

Other options undermine skin health or safety. Soaking the stump in hot water can burn fragile skin and cause breakdown. Applying scented lotion can irritate the skin or hide early irritation. Exposing the stump to direct sunlight increases the risk of sunburn and skin damage.