A nurse is caring for a school-age child who has a fracture to the right femur. Which of the following findings is the nurse’s priority?

Choice A rationale
Discouraging the client from ambulating is not the best action. While it’s important to limit weight-bearing activities initially, movement is encouraged to promote circulation and prevent complications such as deep vein thrombosis.
Choice B rationale
Using a hair dryer on a hot setting to dry the cast is not recommended. Heat can cause the cast to dry out and crack, and it can also burn the skin.
Choice C rationale
Keeping the client’s leg in a dependent position is not advisable. This can lead to increased swelling and pain, and potentially delay healing.
Choice D rationale
Performing a neurovascular check of the lower extremities is the correct action. This involves assessing for pain, pallor, pulselessness, paresthesia, and paralysis. These checks are crucial for monitoring for complications such as compartment syndrome and ensuring the cast is not too tight.

Choice A rationale
Bluish-green discharge from the ear canal is not a typical finding in otitis media. This could suggest a different condition, such as an external ear infection or a ruptured eardrum.
Choice B rationale
Erythema and edema of the affected auricle (outer part of the ear) are not typical findings in otitis media. These symptoms are more commonly associated with conditions affecting the external ear, such as otitis externa.
Choice C rationale
An increase in appetite is not typically associated with otitis media. In fact, children with otitis media may have a decreased appetite due to discomfort or pain while swallowing.
Choice D rationale
Tugging on the affected ear lobe is a common sign of otitis media in infants and young children. This is often due to the pain and discomfort caused by the infection.