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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Sun protection is necessary even when using self-tanning creams. Self-tanning creams do not provide protection against the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Adolescents should be educated about the importance of using sunscreen to prevent skin damage and reduce the risk of skin cancer.
Choice B rationale:
The risk of injury from firearms does not necessarily decrease as children enter adolescence. Adolescents may still lack proper judgment and decision-making skills, making them susceptible to accidents and injuries related to firearms. Educating adolescents about firearm safety and promoting responsible firearm storage is essential.
Choice C rationale:
(Correct Choice) Driving skills can indeed be impaired when friends are present. Teenagers often face distractions while driving, especially when friends are in the car. Peer pressure and social interactions can divert their attention from the road, leading to an increased risk of accidents. Educating adolescents about the importance of focused and responsible driving can help reduce this risk.
Choice D rationale:
Medroxyprogesterone, a form of hormonal contraception, does not provide protection against gonorrhea. It offers contraception by preventing ovulation and altering the cervical mucus to impede sperm penetration. However, it does not offer any protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Adolescents should be educated about safe sex practices to prevent STIs.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Encouraging active range of motion of the extremity is not recommended during the first 12 to 24 hours after a sprained wrist. Early movement can potentially worsen the swelling and delay the healing process.
Choice B rationale:
Applying warm compresses to the extremity is not the best choice to minimize swelling in the initial 12 to 24 hours after a sprained wrist. Heat can actually increase blood flow and promote more swelling in the injured area.
Choice C rationale:
Elevating the extremity above the level of the heart is the correct choice for minimizing swelling in the first 12 to 24 hours after a sprained wrist. Elevating the injured area helps to reduce blood flow to the area, which in turn decreases swelling and promotes healing.
Choice D rationale:
Wrapping the extremity loosely with an elastic bandage might be beneficial for providing support, but it's not the primary intervention for minimizing swelling in the first 12 to 24 hours after a sprained wrist. Elevation is more effective for reducing swelling during this initial period.
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