A nurse is caring for an adolescent client who has a fractured right tibia and a cast. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?
Pain following range-of-motion exercises.
Pruritus under the cast.
Presence of swelling while the extremity is dependent.
Coolness of the toes.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale:
Pain following range-of-motion exercises is a significant finding that should be reported to the provider. It could indicate the possibility of complications, such as further injury or impaired healing. Adolescents with fractured bones are often encouraged to perform range-of-motion exercises to prevent stiffness and promote circulation. However, increased pain during or after these exercises could indicate problems like muscle strain or improper alignment of the fracture, which need to be addressed promptly.
Choice B rationale:
Pruritus (itching) under the cast is common and can be expected due to the accumulation of dead skin cells and sweat. While it can be uncomfortable for the client, it's not an urgent concern that requires immediate reporting to the provider. Strategies to alleviate itching, such as using a cool blow dryer under the cast, can be taught to the client.
Choice C rationale:
The presence of swelling while the extremity is dependent is a normal response to gravity and is not an alarming finding. Swelling when the extremity is dependent is expected, especially within the initial stages of fracture healing. It suggests that the blood supply is reaching the area for healing purposes. Elevation and rest can help reduce the swelling.
Choice D rationale:
Coolness of the toes could be due to reduced blood flow, but this finding alone may not be an immediate concern. It's essential to consider the client's overall circulation, capillary refill, and presence of pulses. If other signs of impaired circulation, such as pallor or delayed capillary refill, are present along with coolness, it might indicate compromised vascular supply. However, based on the information provided, this choice is not as urgent as reporting pain following range-of-motion exercises.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
A 2 cm scalp laceration, while a concern, is not the nurse's priority in this scenario. The child's head injury could potentially be serious, but priority should be given to neurological assessments and signs of increased intracranial pressure.
Choice B rationale:
Nasal discharge negative for glucose is not indicative of a major issue in this context. While cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaking from the nose after head trauma is a concern, it is not mentioned in this scenario, and this choice does not take precedence over other neurological signs.
Choice C rationale:
This is the correct answer. Asymmetric pupils can be a sign of a serious neurological issue, such as a brain injury or increased intracranial pressure. It requires immediate attention and further evaluation to assess the child's neurological status and determine the extent of the injury.
Choice D rationale:
A negative Babinski reflex is a normal finding in this context and does not require immediate priority attention. The Babinski reflex is typically present in infants and disappears as the child grows older. Its absence is expected in older children and adults.
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.
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