What assessment finding is expected for a postoperative client who has had a total hip arthroplasty?

For a postoperative client who has had a total hip arthroplasty, it is expected to find a dull, aching pain in the affected extremity. This type of pain is commonly experienced after surgery due to tissue healing and the body recovering from the surgical procedure. Total hip arthroplasty involves significant alteration and manipulation of the hip joint, which can lead to inflammation and discomfort following the operation.

This dull, aching pain might also be accompanied by a degree of swelling, but it typically does not suggest severe complications. The postoperative period is characterized by an adjustment as the patient rehabilitates and begins to regain strength and mobility around the joint.

Understanding the nature of this pain helps differentiate normal postoperative expectations from potential complications, such as deep vein thrombosis or infection, which might present with different symptoms. The absence of unusual findings—like excessive pain, warmth, or severe swelling—can also indicate a normal healing process, allowing healthcare providers to monitor the recovery effectively.