A nurse is assisting with the care of a school-age child who recently returned to the PACU following pin placement for a radial head fracture with casting. Which of the following findings should the nurse monitor when conducting a circulatory check for compartment syndrome?
Edema.
Mottling.
Urticaria.
Pulselessness.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale:
Edema. Edema, the accumulation of fluid in the tissues, is not the primary indicator of compartment syndrome. While edema can occur due to various reasons, it's not specific to compartment syndrome. Compartment syndrome primarily involves increased pressure within a closed space (muscle compartment), which can compromise blood circulation and nerve function.
Choice B rationale:
Mottling. Mottling refers to a patchy, bluish discoloration of the skin that occurs due to poor blood circulation and is often seen in critically ill patients. While it might indicate circulatory issues, it's not a direct sign of compartment syndrome. Compartment syndrome is more closely associated with symptoms such as severe pain, numbness, and decreased or absent pulses.
Choice C rationale:
Urticaria. Urticaria, also known as hives, is a skin rash characterized by raised, itchy, and red or white welts. It is typically caused by an allergic reaction or other factors such as medications. Urticaria is unrelated to compartment syndrome, which involves the compression of nerves and blood vessels within a closed anatomical compartment, leading to ischemia and potential tissue damage.
Choice D rationale:
Pulselessness. Pulselessness is a critical sign that the nurse should monitor when conducting a circulatory check for compartment syndrome. Compartment syndrome occurs when there is increased pressure within a confined space (muscle compartment), leading to compromised blood flow and oxygen delivery to the tissues. The lack of a palpable pulse in the affected area suggests that blood flow is severely compromised. This is a late sign of compartment syndrome and requires immediate intervention to prevent tissue necrosis and long-term complications.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A"]
Explanation
It is essential for the nurse to stay with the client in this situation. The client's presentation indicates manic behavior, which can be associated with bipolar disorder. Manic episodes can lead to increased energy levels, decreased need for sleep, agitation, and impulsivity. The client's refusal to sit down, pacing, and becoming agitated when asked questions all indicate potential risk to themselves or others. Staying with the client ensures their safety and the safety of others in the environment. The nurse can provide verbal support, prevent potential harm, and de-escalate the situation if needed.
Placing the client in a room close to the nurses' station might be helpful for monitoring and quick assistance, but it doesn't directly address the client's immediate agitation and need for supervision. The priority in this scenario is to ensure the client's safety, which can be achieved by staying with them.
Offering the client a caffeinated beverage is not appropriate in this situation. Caffeine can exacerbate agitation and restlessness, potentially worsening the client's symptoms. It's important to provide a calm and supportive environment instead.
Weighing the client daily is not relevant to the current situation. The client's agitation and need for supervision take precedence over routine assessments like daily weight measurement.
Offering the client finger foods is also not appropriate in this situation. The client's behavior and presentation suggest a manic episode, and their agitation indicates that they are not in a state to engage in eating. Ensuring safety and providing emotional support are the immediate priorities.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The Rotavirus vaccine is typically administered to infants, usually starting at 2 months of age, to protect against severe diarrhea and vomiting caused by rotavirus infection. However, the child in question is 11 years old, and the rotavirus vaccine is not recommended for administration at this age. The vaccine's protection window is within the infant and early childhood period, and the child would likely have received this vaccine earlier.
Choice B rationale:
Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) Hib vaccine is recommended as a series of doses to protect against Haemophilus influenzae type B infection, which can lead to severe illnesses like meningitis and pneumonia. While the child may have received this vaccine in infancy, a booster dose is often recommended around age 11 to ensure ongoing protection. This choice is correct for the given age group.
Choice C rationale:
Hepatitis A Hepatitis A vaccine is typically administered in two doses, with the first dose given at age 1 and the second dose administered at least 6 months later. The child in question is 11 years old, and assuming the child received the vaccine as per the standard schedule, there would be no need to administer this vaccine again.
Choice D rationale:
Human papillomavirus (HPV) HPV vaccine is recommended for adolescents to protect against several strains of the human papillomavirus that can lead to various cancers later in life. It's usually administered in a series of doses starting around age 11 or 12. However, the prompt states that the child is already up-to-date with current immunizations, and if the child received the HPV vaccine at the appropriate age, there would be no need for another dose at this time.
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