A nurse is caring for a client who has a fractured arm in a cast. Which of the following findings about the affected arm should the nurse report to the provider?
Active movement is present
Pain is 4 on scale of 0 to 10
Capillary refit is less than 2 seconds
Skin is cool to the touch
The Correct Answer is D
A. Active movement is present: The presence of active movement in the fingers and toes of the affected arm indicates that nerve and muscle function are intact, which is a positive finding. It indicates there is no impairment in function of the affected arm.
B. Pain is 4 on scale of 0 to 10: A pain level of 4 is moderate pain and might be expected after a fracture. As long as pain is being managed appropriately with prescribed medications and no other concerning symptoms are present, it does not necessarily require immediate reporting.
C. Capillary refill is less than 2 seconds: A capillary refill time of less than 2 seconds is normal. This suggests good blood flow to the affected arm and is not an issue that needs reporting.
D. Skin is cool to the touch: A cool skin temperature on the affected arm could indicate impaired circulation, possibly due to swelling or tightness of the cast, which could lead to compartment syndrome—a serious condition that requires immediate intervention. Therefore, this finding should be reported to the provider immediately.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Tachycardia: Tachycardia, or an increased heart rate, is a common manifestation of opioid withdrawal. Withdrawal stimulates the sympathetic nervous system, leading to symptoms like tachycardia, sweating, anxiety, and restlessness.
B. Miosis: Miosis, or pinpoint pupils, is associated with opioid intoxication, not withdrawal. During withdrawal, pupils are often dilated (mydriasis) rather than constricted.
C. Hypotension: Hypertension, not hypotension, is more commonly seen during opioid withdrawal due to increased sympathetic nervous system activity. Blood pressure tends to rise rather than fall during withdrawal episodes.
D. Sedation: Sedation is a sign of opioid intoxication rather than withdrawal. Clients experiencing withdrawal are more likely to display agitation, irritability, and insomnia rather than drowsiness or sedation.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. "I will support your decision and help you explain it to others.": This response respects the client's autonomy and decision-making rights. It also offers emotional support and assistance in communicating the client's wishes to other healthcare team members or family, promoting dignity and advocacy.
B. "Let me explain the pros and cons of your decision.": This response may sound judgmental and suggest that the nurse is trying to influence the client's decision. Once a competent client has made a choice, the nurse’s role is to support it rather than attempt to persuade or second-guess it.
C. "I suggest you discuss this decision with your family first.": While family discussions can be valuable, the client has the primary right to make healthcare decisions. Suggesting they must discuss it with family could delay honoring the client’s wishes or create unnecessary emotional pressure.
D. "I will send the social worker in to discuss this decision with you.": While a social worker can provide additional support, immediately deferring to someone else instead of acknowledging the client’s decision can make the client feel dismissed. The nurse should first validate and support the client’s expressed wishes.
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