A nurse is caring for a client who has a full arm cast and reports a pain level of 8 on a scale of 0 to 10, which is unrelieved by pain medication.
Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take first?
Check the circulation of the affected extremity.
Administer additional pain medication.
Reposition the affected extremity.
Document the findings.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
Checking the circulation of the affected extremity is crucial because the greatest risk to the client is neuromuscular injury resulting from compartment syndrome. Compartment syndrome is a serious condition that occurs when there’s increased pressure within the muscles, leading to decreased blood flow, which can cause muscle and nerve damage. Early detection and intervention are essential to prevent permanent damage.
Choice B rationale
Administering additional pain medication might provide temporary relief, but it does not address the underlying issue of potential compartment syndrome. Pain unrelieved by medication is a key indicator of this condition, and addressing circulation is the priority.
Choice C rationale
Repositioning the affected extremity might help with comfort, but it does not address the potential for compartment syndrome. The primary concern is ensuring adequate blood flow to prevent tissue damage.
Choice D rationale
Documenting the findings is important for medical records, but it does not address the immediate risk of compartment syndrome. Immediate action to check circulation is necessary to prevent serious complications.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
The weights from the traction device should only be removed if the client develops a life- threatening situation. This is to ensure the client’s immediate safety and address the critical condition.
Choice B rationale
The client should not have the weights removed for repositioning in the bed. Proper techniques should be used to reposition the client without removing the weights to maintain the effectiveness of the traction.
Choice C rationale
Complaints of pain should be addressed by assessing the cause and providing appropriate pain management, but the weights should not be removed as it can compromise the traction.
Choice D rationale
The weights should not be removed for an x-ray. The traction can be maintained during imaging procedures to ensure continuous treatment.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Airway obstruction is not a common complication of a femoral head fracture or skin traction.
Choice B rationale
Pneumonia can cause shortness of breath but is not the most likely complication in this scenario.
Choice C rationale
Pneumothorax is less likely in this context compared to a fat embolism.
Choice D rationale
Fat embolism is a known complication of fractures, especially long bone fractures like the femoral head. It can cause respiratory distress and dyspnea.
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