A nurse is assessing a client who is in skeletal traction for a fractured left tibia. The nurse should identify that which of the following findings indicates altered tissue perfusion of the affected extremity?
Pain with movement of the left great toe
Faint pedal pulse of left leg
Warm skin temperature distal to pin site
Purulent drainage at the pin site
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason:
Pain with movement of the left great toe is incorrect finding: Pain may be expected in a client with a fractured left tibia, especially if the great toe is moved. Pain is more related to the fracture and may not specifically indicate altered tissue perfusion.
Choice B reason:
Faint pedal pulse of the left leg is correct because it indicates that the blood flow to the foot is diminished. The pedal pulse is the pulse felt on the top of the foot, and its faintness could suggest reduced arterial blood flow to the foot.
Choice C reason:
Warm skin temperature distal to the pin site is incorrect: Warm skin distal to the pin site may indicate adequate blood flow and could be a normal finding. Warmth is generally associated with increased blood flow to the area.
Choice D reason:
Purulent drainage at the pin site is incorrect. Purulent drainage at the pin site could indicate an infection, but it is not directly related to altered tissue perfusion. Infection can lead to complications, but it does not necessarily indicate reduced blood flow to the extremity
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Elevate the right leg above heart level. This is contraindicated for the adolescent because elevating the leg above heart level can increase blood pressure in the injured area and worsen bleeding and swelling.
B. Prepare the adolescent for surgery. This is anticipated for the adolescent because they have an open fracture with bone displacement, which requires surgical intervention to reduce the risk of infection and complications.
C. Remove the splint. This is contraindicated for the adolescent because removing the splint can cause further damage to the bone and soft tissues and increase pain and bleeding.
D. Apply ice to the affected extremity. This is contraindicated for the adolescent because applying ice can decrease blood flow to the injured area and impair healing and sensation.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Correct. The nurse should turn off the CPM machine during mealtime, as it can interfere with the client's ability to eat and drink comfortably. The nurse should also turn off the CPM machine when transferring or repositioning the client, or when performing wound care or other interventions on the affected leg.
B. Incorrect. The nurse should maintain the client's affected hip in a neutral position, as external rotation can cause malalignment of the prosthesis and impair healing. The nurse should use pillows or wedges to support the leg and prevent rotation or abduction of the hip joint.
C. Incorrect. The nurse should not instruct the client how to adjust the CPM settings, as this can compromise the prescribed range of motion and speed of the device. The nurse should follow the provider's orders and check with them before making any changes to the CPM settings. The nurse should also monitor the client's pain level and administer analgesics as needed to facilitate compliance with the therapy.
D. Incorrect. The nurse should not store the CPM machine under the client's bed when not in use, as this can pose a safety hazard and damage the equipment. The nurse should place the CPM machine on a stable surface near the bed and ensure that it is plugged into a grounded outlet and has adequate battery backup in case of power failure.
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