A nurse is collecting data from a client following the application of a leg cast for the treatment of a fracture. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect to find first if the cast is too tight?
Toes cool to touch
Inability to move toes
Pallor of the toes
Edema of the toes
The Correct Answer is A
The correct answer is choice A: Toes cool to touch.
Choice A rationale: When a cast is too tight, it can compromise blood circulation to the extremity. This results in decreased blood flow and reduced oxygenation, causing the toes to feel cool to the touch.
Choice B rationale: Inability to move toes is a significant concern that can also indicate nerve compression due to a tight cast. However, it may not be the first sign of a tight cast, as impaired blood circulation will likely be evident before nerve damage.
Choice C rationale: Pallor of the toes, or a pale appearance, can occur when there is restricted blood flow. However, the coolness of the toes is often noticeable before pallor develops.
Choice D rationale: Edema of the toes, or swelling, can occur due to a tight cast, but it is usually a later sign. Initially, the toes may feel cool to the touch, followed by other symptoms such as pallor, pain, and eventually, swelling.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The first action the nurse should take is to check the client for injuries. The nurse should assess the client for any signs of injury or trauma and provide appropriate care as needed.
Obtaining a prescription for medication to sedate the client, calling the family and asking them to make arrangements for someone to sit with the client, and assisting the client back into bed and applying restraints are not appropriate initial actions for the nurse to take in this situation. These actions may be considered after the client has been assessed for injuries and their immediate needs have been addressed.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The priority intervention for the nurse to implement for a newly-admitted client who has acute osteomyelitis is antibiotic therapy. Osteomyelitis is an inflammatory condition of bone secondary to an infectious process¹. Antibiotics are the primary treatment option and should be tailored based on culture results and individual patient factors.
a. Optimal nutrition and hydration is important but not the priority intervention.
b. Surgical debridement of necrotic tissue may be necessary but is not the priority intervention.
d. Antipyretic therapy may be necessary but is not the priority intervention.
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