A client who has developed acute compartment syndrome from a compound fracture of the arm asks the nurse to define what this means. Based on an understanding of the condition, the nurse should explain that:
Bleeding and swelling cause increased pressure under the fascia.
Displaced bones compress nerves and vessels.
Blood supply to the bone is interrupted.
Compression of the muscle tissue restricts blood flow to the area.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A Reason
Acute compartment syndrome occurs when bleeding or swelling within an enclosed bundle of muscles – known as a muscle compartment – leads to increased pressure. This pressure can impede blood flow to the body tissue and destroy function. The fascia, which is a tough layer of fibrous tissue, does not stretch easily, so any swelling or bleeding can quickly lead to increased pressure.
Choice B Reason
While displaced bones can compress nerves and vessels, this is not the primary mechanism of acute compartment syndrome. Displaced bones are more likely to cause direct injury or impingement, but compartment syndrome specifically refers to the pressure build-up within a muscle compartment that affects circulation and tissue viability.
Choice C Reason
Interruption of blood supply to the bone is a serious concern and can lead to conditions such as avascular necrosis. However, in the context of acute compartment syndrome, the primary issue is the pressure within the muscle compartment rather than direct disruption of blood supply to the bone.
Choice D Reason
Compression of muscle tissue can restrict blood flow to the area, which is a part of the pathophysiology of compartment syndrome. However, the compression is a result of increased pressure within the compartment, not the primary cause. The increased pressure is due to bleeding and swelling, which is why choice A is the most accurate description.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice a reason:
Risperidone is an antipsychotic medication that can help manage both positive symptoms (such as delusions and hallucinations) and negative symptoms (such as apathy and social isolation) of schizophrenia. Monitoring both types of symptoms is essential to evaluate the overall effectiveness of the treatment. Positive symptoms are often more responsive to medication, while negative symptoms can be more challenging to treat and may require a comprehensive approach including psychosocial interventions.
Choice b reason:
Disorganized symptoms, which include disorganized speech and behavior, are another aspect of schizophrenia that can be impacted by risperidone. While these symptoms are not mentioned in the client's current presentation, they are still important to monitor as part of a comprehensive assessment of the client's condition.
Choice c reason:
Negative symptoms like apathy and social isolation can significantly impact a client's quality of life and functional abilities. Risperidone can help improve these symptoms, but they often require longer treatment duration and additional supportive therapies for significant improvement.
Choice d reason:
Positive symptoms such as delusions and hallucinations are critical targets for risperidone treatment. These symptoms can be distressing and disruptive, and their improvement is a key indicator of the medication's effectiveness. Monitoring the reduction or resolution of these symptoms is crucial for assessing the client's response to risperidone.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Isoniazid, an antitubercular medication, can cause peripheral neuropathy, a form of nerve damage characterized by numbness, tingling, or pain, particularly in the hands and feet. This side effect is due to the drug's interference with the normal metabolism of vitamin B6 (pyridoxine). Supplementation with vitamin B6 is recommended to prevent this complication. The normal daily recommended intake for vitamin B6 in adults ranges from 1.3 to 1.7 mg.
Choice B reason:
While it is true that isoniazid can cause discoloration of bodily fluids, turning urine and tears orange, this is not a harmful side effect and does not require intervention. It is, however, important to inform the client of this possibility to prevent alarm.
Choice C reason:
There is no evidence to suggest that routine hearing exams are necessary for clients taking isoniazid unless they have pre-existing hearing conditions or are taking other medications known to affect hearing. Therefore, this is not a standard part of the teaching plan for clients on isoniazid.
Choice D reason:
Photosensitivity reactions are not commonly associated with isoniazid use. While wearing sunscreen is generally good advice for skin protection, it is not specifically related to the administration of isoniazid and thus would not be the primary information to include in the teaching plan.
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