A nurse assessing a client who has multiple fractures in his left leg notes increasing edema. The nurse should recognize this finding as an early manifestation of which of the following complications?
Fat embolism syndrome
Pulmonary embolism
Acute compartment syndrome
Osteomyelitis
The Correct Answer is C
A. Fat embolism syndrome - This is characterized by respiratory distress, altered mental status, and petechial rash. It is not associated with increasing edema.
B. Pulmonary embolism - This occurs when a blood clot (usually from the legs) travels to the lungs and can present with symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, and rapid heart rate. It is not associated with increasing edema around a fracture site.
C. Acute compartment syndrome - This is a serious condition that occurs when increased pressure within a muscle compartment impairs blood supply, leading to tissue ischemia and necrosis. Increasing edema is an early sign of compartment syndrome.
D. Osteomyelitis - This is an infection of the bone and is not typically associated with increasing edema around a fracture site. It may present with local signs of infection like warmth, redness, and tenderness.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D","E"]
Explanation
A. Place a compression bandage on the ankle.
- This helps reduce swelling and provides support to the injured area.
B. Apply heat to the ankle
- This action is not recommended for acute sprains as it can increase swelling. Cold packs or ice should be used initially to reduce inflammation.
C. Encourage rest.
- Rest is important to allow the ankle to heal properly and prevent further injury.
D. Elevate the ankle.
- Elevating the ankle helps reduce swelling by allowing fluid to drain away from the injured area.
E. Perform passive range-of-motion exercises to the ankle.
- Gentle range-of-motion exercises can help prevent stiffness in the ankle joint. However, it's important to perform these exercises within the limits of comfort and not force any movements.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Transverse fractures occur straight across the bone. In this case, the bone is splintered, which is not characteristic of a transverse fracture.
B. Oblique fractures have a diagonal break across the bone. This does not match the description provided in the scenario.
C. Impacted fractures occur when one end of the bone is forced into the adjacent bone. This does not align with the description of the fracture in the scenario.
D. Correct. A comminuted fracture involves the bone breaking into multiple fragments or pieces. This aligns with the description provided in the scenario where the bone is splintered into several pieces around the shaft.
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