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: Telling the client to expect a decrease in urine output is not an appropriate intervention for a client who has urolithiasis, as it may indicate dehydration, obstruction, or infection.
Choice B Reason: Encouraging the client to drink 3 L of fluids per day is an appropriate intervention for a client who has urolithiasis, as it helps to flush out stones, prevent new stone formation, and reduce urinary concentration.
Choice C Reason: Providing the client with a high protein diet is not an appropriate intervention for a client who has urolithiasis, as it may increase uric acid and calcium excretion and promote stone formation.
Choice D Reason: Maintaining the client on bed rest is not an appropriate intervention for a client who has urolithiasis, as it may decrease renal perfusion and increase urinary stasis.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason: Increased pain is not a specific sign of hemorrhage, but it may indicate inflammation, infection, or nerve damage.
Choice B Reason: Continuous swallowing is a sign of hemorrhage, as it indicates that blood is accumulating in the throat or esophagus and stimulating the swallowing reflex.
Choice C Reason: Poor fluid intake is not a sign of hemorrhage, but it may indicate difficulty swallowing, nausea, or dehydration.
Choice D Reason: Drooling is not a sign of hemorrhage, but it may indicate impaired oral control, salivary gland damage, or infection.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today