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: Hypertension is not a common finding in a client with low calcium level, but it may indicate other conditions such as renal disease or pheochromocytoma.
Choice B Reason: Diaphoresis is not a common finding in a client with low calcium level, but it may indicate other conditions such as fever, anxiety, or hyperthyroidism.
Choice C Reason: Increased thirst is not a common finding in a client with low calcium level, but it may indicate other conditions such as diabetes mellitus, dehydration, or psychogenic polydipsia.
Choice D Reason: Muscle tetany is a common finding in a client with low calcium level, as it indicates that the nerves and muscles are overexcited and contract involuntarily. It may manifest as spasms, cramps, twitching, or tingling sensations.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason: If I feel nervous or have tremors, I should not only take half the dose, but I should contact my healthcare provider, as these may indicate signs of overdose or hyperthyroidism.
Choice B Reason: I cannot expect diarrhea, insomnia, and excessive sweating, but these are possible side effects of overdose or hyperthyroidism.
Choice C Reason: I need to call my healthcare provider if my heart rate becomes fast, as this may indicate a serious adverse reaction or overdose of levothyroxine sodium.
Choice D Reason: I should not take the medication in the evening, but in the morning on an empty stomach at least 30 minutes before breakfast, as this ensures better absorption and prevents insomnia.
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