A nurse is caring for a client who just had a left long-arm plaster cast applied after experiencing a musculoskeletal trauma. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Position the cast on a plastic-covered pillow.

Perform neurovascular checks every 2 hr.

Instruct the client to avoid moving the fingers on the left hand.

Touch the cast with the palms of the hands when moving the client.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

A) Position the cast on a plastic-covered pillow:
Positioning the cast on a plastic-covered pillow is not recommended because the plastic can trap moisture and heat, potentially affecting the cast's integrity as it dries. Instead, a soft, absorbent material should be used to support the cast.

B) Perform neurovascular checks every 2 hr:
Frequent neurovascular checks are essential to monitor for complications such as compartment syndrome, nerve damage, or impaired circulation. This action helps ensure that any changes in sensation, movement, or circulation are identified and addressed promptly.

C) Instruct the client to avoid moving the fingers on the left hand:
Encouraging the client to move their fingers is important to prevent stiffness and swelling and to promote circulation. Instructing the client to avoid moving their fingers is not appropriate and could lead to complications.

D) Touch the cast with the palms of the hands when moving the client:
Handling a wet plaster cast with the palms of the hands is correct to prevent indentations and pressure points that could cause skin irritation or pressure sores. However, this action is not as critical as performing frequent neurovascular checks to ensure the client's safety and monitor for complications.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A) Drowsiness: While drowsiness can be a sign of elevated magnesium levels, it is less critical compared to more immediate symptoms like bradycardia. Monitoring and managing drowsiness is important, but bradycardia poses a more immediate risk of severe cardiovascular issues.

B) Diminished patellar reflexes: Diminished reflexes can indicate elevated magnesium levels, but this finding is less urgent compared to symptoms directly affecting heart function. It still needs to be reported but is not the highest priority.

C) Generalized muscle weakness: Muscle weakness is another common sign of high magnesium levels, reflecting the effect of magnesium on neuromuscular function. However, it is less critical compared to bradycardia, which can be life-threatening.

D) Bradycardia: Elevated magnesium levels can significantly impact cardiac function, leading to bradycardia. Bradycardia can be life-threatening, as it may result in decreased cardiac output and potential for severe complications. Therefore, this finding requires immediate attention and should be reported to the provider first.

A. Multiple clots in the client's urinary bag B. Client reports bladder spasms when repositioning in bed C. Obstruction in client's urinary catheter continues after manual irrigation D. Client reports a pain rating of 3 on a 0 to 10 scale

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A) Multiple clots in the client's urinary bag:
Multiple clots in the urinary bag can be expected after a transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) as part of the normal postoperative bleeding. While clots can cause concern if they become excessive or obstructive, they are not as immediately critical as a persistent obstruction.

B) Client reports bladder spasms when repositioning in bed:
Bladder spasms are a common postoperative symptom following TURP and can be managed with antispasmodic medications and proper catheter care. Although uncomfortable, bladder spasms do not pose an immediate threat to the client’s health.

C) Obstruction in client's urinary catheter continues after manual irrigation:
A persistent obstruction in the urinary catheter after manual irrigation is a significant concern. This can indicate a severe blockage that might prevent urine from draining, leading to bladder distention, potential damage to the surgical site, and increased risk of infection. Immediate intervention is required to resolve the obstruction and ensure proper urinary drainage.

D) Client reports a pain rating of 3 on a 0 to 10 scale:
A pain rating of 3 on a 0 to 10 scale indicates mild pain, which is common in the postoperative period and can be managed with analgesics. While pain management is important, this level of pain does not constitute an urgent issue requiring immediate reporting to the provider.

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A nurse is caring for a client who just had a left long-arm plaster cast applied after experiencing a musculoskeletal trauma. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

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