A client with a fracture of the left arm that has been set in a cast complains of severe, diffuse pain that is unrelieved by pain medication. The nurse notes that the pulse distal to the site of injury has weakened and that the tissue is pale. Which of the following nursing actions should the nurse perform first?
Contact the health care provider.
Administer PRN pain medication.
Document the findings.
Elevate the extremity.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A Reason: Contacting the health care provider is the first nursing action that the nurse should perform, as it indicates that the client may have compartment syndrome, which is a medical emergency that requires immediate intervention to prevent tissue necrosis and nerve damage.
Choice B Reason: Administering PRN pain medication is not the first nursing action that the nurse should perform, as it may not relieve the pain and may mask the symptoms of compartment syndrome.
Choice C Reason: Documenting the findings is not the first nursing action that the nurse should perform, as it may delay the treatment and worsen the outcome of compartment syndrome.
Choice D Reason: Elevating the extremity is not the first nursing action that the nurse should perform, as it may decrease blood flow and increase tissue ischemia in compartment syndrome.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason: The procedure will not be cancelled if the urinalysis indicates the presence of red blood cells, but it may indicate a urinary tract infection or kidney damage that needs further evaluation.
Choice B Reason: After the procedure, you will be encouraged to drink plenty of fluids, as this helps to flush out the contrast dye that was injected into your vein and prevent dehydration and kidney damage.
Choice C Reason: High frequency sound waves will not be used to identify renal system structures, but this is the principle of ultrasound imaging, which is a different diagnostic test.
Choice D Reason: You will not need to remain flat in bed for 4 hours following this procedure, but you may need to rest for a short period of time and avoid strenuous activities for the rest of the day.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason: Instructing the client to increase fluid intake is not the most appropriate nursing action, as it does not address the cause or severity of the bleeding.
Choice B Reason: Notifying the health care provider is the most appropriate nursing action, as it indicates that the client may have a bleeding ulcer that requires immediate evaluation and treatment.
Choice C Reason: Advising the client to take iron rich foods is not the most appropriate nursing action, as it does not prevent or correct anemia or bleeding.
Choice D Reason: Documenting the findings is not the most appropriate nursing action, as it does not initiate any intervention or outcome.
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