A nurse is assessing the parenting styles of a family. Which of the following parent statements identify characteristics of authoritarian parenting?

Rationale:

A. Stair carpeting is attached with carpet tacks: Loose or improperly secured carpeting on stairs creates a significant tripping hazard, especially for clients with mobility limitations such as a hip fracture. Carpet tacks can cause the edges of the carpet to lift, increasing the risk of falls and further injury.

B. Nonessential items are stored in drawers: Storing nonessential items in drawers does not create an immediate fall risk or safety hazard. Keeping items organized in drawers can actually reduce clutter in walking areas, making the environment safer.

C. Magazines are stacked neatly on the stairs: Even neatly stacked magazines on stairs are a potential tripping hazard. However, the option specifies “neatly stacked,” which implies some order, though ideally items should not be on stairs at all. Carpet tacks pose a more immediate and hidden danger than visible items.

D. End tables are secured to the wall: Securing furniture prevents tipping and provides stability, which enhances safety for clients with mobility limitations. This measure decreases the risk of falls and does not pose a hazard.

Rationale for correct choices

• Compartment syndrome: The child has a nondisplaced fracture of the radius and ulna, which can lead to swelling and increased pressure within the forearm compartments. Compartment syndrome is a serious complication that can compromise circulation and nerve function if not identified and treated promptly. Early recognition is critical to prevent permanent muscle and nerve damage.

• Paresthesia: The child reports mild tingling in the fingers, indicating early sensory nerve involvement. Paresthesia is a key early sign of neurovascular compromise in compartment syndrome. Monitoring for worsening tingling, numbness, or pain is essential for timely intervention, such as fasciotomy if needed.

Rationale for incorrect choices

• Deep vein thrombosis: DVT is uncommon in pediatric patients, especially in the absence of immobility, central lines, or hypercoagulable conditions. While fractures increase risk in adults, it is not the highest-priority risk in this 9-year-old child with an acute upper extremity fracture.

• Malunion: Malunion refers to healing of a fracture in an abnormal position. While possible, this risk develops over time and is not the immediate concern in the acute phase. Neurovascular compromise and compartment syndrome are more urgent.

• Type of fracture: While the fracture type (nondisplaced radius and ulna) informs management, it does not by itself represent the complication risk. The clinical symptoms of tingling are more directly indicative of acute neurovascular compromise.

• Ecchymosis: Bruising reflects local tissue trauma but is not a definitive indicator of compartment syndrome. Ecchymosis should be monitored but does not provide the highest-priority evidence of risk.

• Location of fracture: The midshaft location guides treatment, such as splinting, but the presence of paresthesia is more directly associated with risk for compartment syndrome. Location alone does not indicate imminent neurovascular compromise.