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 D
Explanation
Choice A Reason: Irrigating the fistula with 3 mL of normal saline solution is not a correct way to assess the patency of the fistula, as it may cause bleeding, infection, or dislodgement of the fistula.
Choice B Reason: Flushing the fistula with 1 mL of heparin solution once per shift is not a correct way to assess the patency of the fistula, as it may cause clotting, infection, or allergic reaction.
Choice C Reason: Infusing 50 mL of normal saline once per 24 hours is not a correct way to assess the patency of the fistula, as it may cause fluid overload, hypertension, or edema.
Choice D Reason: Palpating for a vibrating sensation at the fistula site is a correct way to assess the patency of the fistula, as it indicates that there is adequate blood flow through the fistula. This sensation is also known as a thrill.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A Reason: Instituting measures to prevent infection is the highest priority in providing care to this client, as AIDS impairs the immune system and makes the client susceptible to opportunistic infections that can be life-threatening.
Choice B Reason: Providing emotional support is an important aspect of providing care to this client, but it is not the highest priority, as it does not address the physical needs of the client.
Choice C Reason: Identifying risk factors related to contracting AIDS is not relevant for providing care to this client, as it does not help to improve the current condition or prevent complications.
Choice D Reason: Discussing the cause of AIDS is not essential for providing care to this client, as it does not affect the treatment or prognosis of the disease.
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