A client is reporting pain in her casted leg. The nurse has administered analgesics and elevated the limb. Thirty minutes after administering the analgesics. the client states the pain is unrelieved. The nurse is unable to palpate the client's dorsalis pedis or posterior tibial pulse and the client's foot is pale. The nurse suspects compartment syndrome. What is the nurse's most appropriate action?
Promptly inform the primary provider.
Reassess the client's neurovascular status in 15 minutes.
Warm the client's foot and determine whether circulation improves.
Reposition the client with the affected foot dependent.
The Correct Answer is A
Explanation:
A. Promptly inform the primary provider:
Explanation: Compartment syndrome is a medical emergency that requires immediate intervention. If a nurse suspects compartment syndrome due to symptoms like severe unrelieved pain, absent pulses, and pale extremities, the most appropriate action is to promptly inform the primary healthcare provider. The provider can assess the situation, order necessary diagnostic tests, and potentially arrange for emergent interventions like fasciotomy to relieve compartment pressure.
B. Reassess the client's neurovascular status in 15 minutes:
Explanation: Waiting for 15 minutes to reassess the client's neurovascular status is not appropriate in this situation. Compartment syndrome can progress rapidly, leading to irreversible tissue damage within a short time frame. Delaying assessment and intervention can result in significant complications.
C. Warm the client's foot and determine whether circulation improves:
Explanation: Warming the foot is not appropriate in this context. Compartment syndrome is caused by increased pressure within the muscle compartment, leading to compromised circulation. Warming the foot will not address the underlying issue of elevated compartment pressure and can potentially worsen the condition by dilating blood vessels and increasing pressure further.
D. Reposition the client with the affected foot dependent:
Explanation: Repositioning the client with the affected foot dependent is contraindicated in compartment syndrome. Elevating the limb can worsen the condition by further restricting blood flow. The limb should be kept at or slightly below the level of the heart to maintain adequate perfusion until medical intervention can be initiated.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Increased urinary output: Phenazopyridine (Pyridium) does not directly impact urinary output. Its primary function is to provide relief from urinary pain, burning, and discomfort associated with urinary tract infections (UTIs) or other urinary conditions. It does not affect the amount of urine a person produces.
B. Decreased WBC's: Phenazopyridine does not directly influence white blood cell count (WBCs). WBC count is an indicator of the body's immune response and is typically used to assess the presence of infection. Phenazopyridine provides symptomatic relief but does not affect the underlying infection or the body's immune response to it.
C. Increased uric acid: Phenazopyridine does not affect uric acid levels. Uric acid is a waste product that is excreted by the kidneys. Elevated uric acid levels can be associated with conditions like gout, but Phenazopyridine does not have any direct impact on these levels.
D. Decreased bladder pain/spasms: Phenazopyridine is intended to relieve symptoms such as bladder pain, spasms, burning sensation, and discomfort experienced during urination. Therefore, the effectiveness of Phenazopyridine is indicated by a reduction in these symptoms. If the patient reports a decrease in bladder pain and spasms, it suggests that the medication is working to alleviate the discomfort associated with urinary tract issues.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. There is no need for the client to lie flat for an extended period after a DEXA scan. The procedure is non-invasive and does not require immobilization.
B. Emptying the bladder before the test is essential to ensure a clear and accurate scan of the pelvis and lower spine. A full bladder might obstruct the view and affect the accuracy of the results.
C. DEXA scans do not typically require the use of IV dye. It is a simple X-ray procedure that measures bone density, and no contrast material is usually needed.
D. Fasting is not necessary for a DEXA scan. The procedure does not involve ingesting or injecting any substances that require fasting.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today