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 B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Positioning the child sitting with their buttocks at the edge of the table is not appropriate for collecting a bone marrow specimen from a preschooler. This position does not provide adequate access to the bone marrow aspiration site and may lead to discomfort for the child.
Choice B rationale:
Placing the child in a prone position (lying face down) is suitable for collecting a bone marrow specimen from a preschooler. This position exposes the posterior iliac crest, which is a common site for bone marrow aspiration. It allows for easier access to the bone marrow and reduces the risk of injury.
Choice C rationale:
Positioning the child side-lying to expose the vertebrae is not the recommended position for bone marrow aspiration. The iliac crest, not the vertebrae, is the usual site for this procedure in children. Placing the child in a side-lying position would make it difficult to access the appropriate site.
Choice D rationale:
Placing the child supine with legs flexed outward into a frog-like position is suitable for collecting a bone marrow specimen. This position provides access to the iliac crest while allowing for better immobilization of the child. It also ensures the child's safety and comfort during the procedure.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Answer: d. Apply suction in 3 to 4-second increments.
Rationale:
- a. Instill 2 mL of 0.9% sodium chloride prior to suctioning:While saline instillations may be used in some cases,it is not universally recommended for infants with tracheostomies and depends on the specific situation and healthcare provider's protocol.The priority in this case is to quickly clear the partial mucus occlusion to prevent respiratory distress.
- b. Select a catheter that fits snugly into the tracheostomy tube:This isincorrect.Selecting a catheter that fits tightly can damage the delicate tracheal mucosa and increase the risk of bleeding.A smaller-diameter catheter that allows for gentle passage is preferred.
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Tracheostomy tube and different catheter sizes
- c. Use a clean technique when performing suctioning:This is absolutely essential for all suctioning procedures to minimize the risk of infection.However,it is not the specific action that addresses the immediate concern of clearing the partial mucus occlusion.
- d. Apply suction in 3 to 4-second increments:This is thecorrectapproach for suctioning an infant with a tracheostomy.Applying short,intermittent suction bursts minimizes the risk of hypoxia and tissue trauma while effectively removing secretions.
Therefore, the most important action for the nurse to take is to apply suction in short, 3-4 second bursts to effectively clear the mucus occlusion while minimizing risks to the infant.
Additional Points:
- The nurse should use sterile suction equipment and sterile technique throughout the procedure.
- The suction pressure should be set at the lowest effective level,typically 80-120 mmHg.
- The nurse should monitor the infant for signs of respiratory distress,such as increased work of breathing,retractions,and oxygen desaturation,before,during,and after suctioning.
- If the mucus occlusion is not cleared after several attempts,the nurse should seek assistance from ahealthcareprovider.
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