Post bilateral knee amputation, what is the nursing priority?

• A. Elevate the limb
• B. Provide analgesia
• C. Document vital signs
• D. Check for hemorrhage at the side of the amputation

Answer: (D)

The most urgent concern after a bilateral knee amputation is stopping or preventing ongoing bleeding from the amputation sites. Uncontrolled hemorrhage can lead to rapid loss of blood and shock, so the nurse’s first action is to check the dressings for any active bleeding and intervene to control it. Inspecting the wound and dressing, applying direct pressure with sterile gauze if needed, and immediately notifying the physician if bleeding persists are essential steps to maintain the patient’s stability. Analgesia and monitoring vital signs are important components of care, but they do not address the immediate risk of life-threatening bleeding. Elevating the limbs is considered later for edema management and does not take precedence over ensuring hemostasis.