A nurse is assessing for early signs of compartment syndrome for a client who has a short-leg fiberglass cast. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
Intense pain with movement
Bounding distal pulses
Erythema of the toes
Capillary refill less than 2 seconds
The Correct Answer is A
Compartment syndrome is a condition in which increased pressure within a confined space compromises blood flow and tissue perfusion, leading to ischemia and necrosis. It can occur after trauma, fracture, or casting of an extremity. The early signs of compartment syndrome include intense pain with movement that is not relieved by analgesics or elevation, paresthesia, pallor, and decreased sensation and motor function of the affected limb. The late signs include absent distal pulses, cyanosis, coldness, and paralysis. Therefore, option A is correct.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Wear a lead apron when providing client care. Internal radiation therapy (brachytherapy) is a type of treatment that uses a radioactive source placed inside or near the tumor . The nurse should wear a lead apron to protect themselves from exposure to radiation when caring for the client. The other actions are not appropriate for a client receiving internal radiation therapy.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
This is because peritonitis is an infection of the peritoneal cavity that can occur as a complication of peritoneal dialysis. Peritonitis can cause inflammation and irritation of the peritoneum, which can lead to cloudy or milky appearance of the dialysate fluid that drains out of the abdomen (also known as effluent). Cloudy effluent is often the first and most reliable sign of peritonitis in peritoneal dialysis patients. Other signs and symptoms of peritonitis may include increased heart rate, generalized abdominal pain, fever, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and malaise.
The nurse should instruct the client and his partner to inspect the effluent for clarity every time they perform an exchange and to report any changes to their health care provider immediately. The nurse should also teach them how to prevent peritonitis by following strict aseptic technique when handlingcatheters and supplies, washing hands before and after each exchange, wearing a mask during exchanges, and storing supplies in a clean and dry place.
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