A nurse is assisting in the care of a client suspected of having a tuberculosis infection. Which of the following personal protective equipment should the nurse wear when in the client's room?

Rationale for correct choices:

• Compartment syndrome: The client demonstrates classic neurovascular compromise: severe escalating pain, numbness, inability to move toes, cool extremity, absent distal pulses, delayed capillary refill, and increasing edema. These findings reflect increased intracompartmental pressure compromising circulation and nerve function. This is a limb-threatening postoperative emergency following fractures and splinting.

• Osteomyelitis: The client has an open fracture with internal fixation, drainage at the surgical site, fever, and a marked rise in WBC count. Open fractures significantly increase the risk of bone infection due to direct contamination. Persistent fever and leukocytosis support developing osteomyelitis rather than normal postoperative inflammation.

Rationale for incorrect choices:

• Fat embolism syndrome: Fat embolism typically presents with acute respiratory distress, hypoxemia, altered mental status, and petechial rash. This client maintains adequate oxygen saturation and denies shortness of breath, making this condition less likely at this time.

• Deep vein thrombosis: DVT commonly presents with unilateral calf pain, warmth, erythema, and swelling, but does not cause absent pulses, motor loss, or sensory deficits. The acute neurovascular changes seen here point to arterial compromise rather than venous obstruction.

A. “I can prevent constipation if I drink more milk while taking this medication.": Milk can actually decrease the absorption of iron and does not prevent constipation. Adequate hydration and dietary fiber are more effective strategies for managing iron-related constipation.

B. “I will mix the medication with a full glass of water.”: Ferrous sulfate elixir should be diluted in water or juice to improve taste, reduce gastrointestinal irritation, and enhance absorption. This statement reflects proper understanding of safe and effective administration.

C. “I will report black stools to my doctor": Black stools are a common, harmless side effect of iron supplementation and do not usually require reporting. Misunderstanding this can cause unnecessary concern if the client is aware that it is expected.

D. “I can prevent nausea if I take the medication on an empty stomach.”: Taking iron on an empty stomach may actually increase gastrointestinal irritation and nausea. It is often recommended to take iron with food if intolerance occurs, though absorption may be slightly reduced.