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: Ketoacidosis is not likely to be the complication that the nurse should suspect, as it is caused by high blood glucose levels and results in symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, fruity breath, and deep breathing.
Choice B Reason: Hyperglycemia is not likely to be the complication that the nurse should suspect, as it is caused by high blood glucose levels and results in symptoms such as thirst, polyuria, blurred vision, dry skin, and fatigue.
Choice C Reason: Nephropathy is not likely to be the complication that the nurse should suspect, as it is a chronic kidney disease that develops over time due to diabetes and results in symptoms such as proteinuria, edema, hypertension, and anemia.
Choice D Reason: Hypoglycemia is likely to be the complication that the nurse should suspect, as it is caused by low blood glucose levels and results in symptoms such as sweating, tachycardia, lightheadedness, shakiness, hunger, and confusion.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason: Encouraging deep-breathing exercises is not the most appropriate nursing intervention, as it may not reduce fatigue and may increase respiratory effort.
Choice B Reason: Providing a relaxing warm bath is not the most appropriate nursing intervention, as it may worsen fatigue and increase the risk of heat intolerance and dehydration.
Choice C Reason: Scheduling periods of rest in between activities is the most appropriate nursing intervention, as it helps to conserve energy, prevent exhaustion, and promote recovery.
Choice D Reason: Administering multivitamins is not the most appropriate nursing intervention, as it may not improve fatigue and may cause adverse effects or interactions with other medications.
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