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.

Answer and Explanation

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.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A Reason
Petechiae on the chest are a classic sign of fat emboli syndrome (FES). FES is a rare but serious complication that can occur after a long bone fracture, such as a femur fracture. The petechiae result from small fat droplets that travel to the skin's capillaries and cause pinpoint hemorrhages. This symptom is part of the classic triad for FES, which includes respiratory distress, neurological symptoms, and a petechial rash.

Choice B Reason
While an edematous calf may be a concern for deep vein thrombosis or other complications following a fracture, it is not a specific indicator of FES. Edema in the calf could be due to various reasons, including local trauma from the fracture itself or immobilization.

Choice C Reason
An elevated temperature can be associated with many post-injury complications, including infection or inflammatory response. However, it is not specific to FES. While patients with FES may present with fever, it is not one of the primary diagnostic criteria.

Choice D Reason
Paresthesia distal to the fracture could indicate nerve damage or compartment syndrome, which are important to assess in a patient with a femur fracture. However, paresthesia is not a specific sign of FES. The neurological symptoms associated with FES are more generalized and often include confusion or altered mental status.

A. Packaged meats such as salami and bacon B. Grapefruit juice C. Canned soups D. Fresh fruits E. Fresh shellfish

Correct Answer is ["A","B","C"]

Explanation

Choice A reason:
Packaged meats, including salami and bacon, are typically high in sodium, which can contribute to increased blood pressure. The American Heart Association recommends that individuals with hypertension limit their sodium intake to no more than 2,300 milligrams per day, with an ideal limit of no more than 1,500 milligrams for most adults². Since packaged meats are often cured with salt, they can significantly contribute to the daily sodium intake, potentially exacerbating hypertension.

Choice B reason:
Grapefruit juice can interact with certain antihypertensive medications, potentially leading to higher levels of the medication in the bloodstream and an increased risk of side effects¹. This interaction occurs because grapefruit juice can inhibit the action of an enzyme that metabolizes medication, leading to an unintended increase in medication levels.

Choice C reason:
Canned soups are often high in sodium, which can contribute to increased blood pressure. Even low-sodium varieties can still contain significant amounts of sodium. It's important for individuals with hypertension to read labels carefully and choose options with the lowest sodium content possible².

Choice D reason:
Fresh fruits are generally recommended for individuals with hypertension. They are rich in potassium, which can help lower blood pressure by balancing out the negative effects of sodium and easing tension in the blood vessel walls¹. Fresh fruits should not be avoided unless there is a specific reason related to another health condition or medication interaction.

Choice E reason:
Fresh shellfish, like fresh fruits, are typically safe for individuals with hypertension to consume. They provide essential nutrients without the added sodium that is found in processed foods. However, it's important to consume them in moderation and to prepare them without adding excessive salt or high-sodium sauces.

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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:

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Which assessment finding indicates to the nurse that the client who sustained a fractured femur in a motor vehicle accident is experiencing fat emboli syndrome?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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Correct Answer is ["A","B","C"]

Explanation

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