A nurse in an emergency department is caring for a 60-year-old client.
Complete the diagram by dragging from the choices below to specify what condition the client is most likely experiencing, two actions the nurse should take to address that condition, and two parameters the nurse should monitor to assess the client's progress.
The Correct Answer is []
1. Condition: Acute Compartment Syndrome
Justification: The presence of severe pain, swelling, numbness, and a weak radial pulse along with delayed capillary refill are classic signs of acute compartment syndrome. Immediate surgical intervention (fasciotomy) is necessary to relieve the pressure within the muscle compartments.
2. Actions to Take
Prepare for Fasciotomy:
Justification: This surgical procedure will relieve the internal pressure causing the symptoms.
Request Prescription for Pain Medication:
Justification: Adequate pain management is important for client comfort and can also indicate response to treatment.
3. Parameters to Monitor
Neurovascular Status:
Justification: Monitoring for further deterioration of symptoms such as worsening numbness or weak pulses is essential.
WBC Count:
Justification: Helps in the broader assessment of possible infection, though not directly related to acute compartment syndrome
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Securing the drain to the client's bed sheet is not an appropriate method for securing the JP drain; it should be secured to the client’s gown or clothing to avoid tension on the drain.
B. Expelling the air from the JP bulb after emptying to re-establish suction is necessary to ensure that the drain continues to function correctly by maintaining negative pressure.
C. Measuring the drainage every hour for the first 8 hr postoperative is more frequent than necessary; monitoring can be done every 4-8 hours depending on the protocol.
D. Removing the JP drain when the drainage has ceased, covering the opening with sterile gauze is incorrect; the drain should be removed per the surgeon’s orders, and the site should be covered with a sterile dressing.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Flex the client’s hip is incorrect. Flexing the hip can increase intra-abdominal pressure and potentially increase intracranial pressure.
B. Hyperextend the client’s neck is incorrect. Hyperextension of the neck can interfere with venous return from the brain and increase ICP.
C. Provide warming measures for the client is incorrect. Warming measures are not indicated for a low CPP; maintaining normothermia is important, but warming is not the priority action.
D. Adjust the client’s head of bed is correct. Elevating the head of the bed helps reduce ICP and improves cerebral perfusion by promoting venous outflow.
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