A nurse is collecting data from a client who had a long arm cast applied 2 hr. ago. Which of the following findings of the affected extremity should the nurse report to the provider immediately?
The client's fingers are cool to the touch.
The client reports severe itching under the cast.
The client's capillary refill is 3 seconds.
The client reports increased pain at the area of the fracture.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A Reason:
The client's fingers are cool to the touch is correct. Coolness of the fingers within a short time after a cast application can indicate compromised circulation or potential compartment syndrome, which requires urgent attention to prevent tissue damage or loss of function. It suggests impaired blood flow to the fingers, which is a serious concern requiring immediate evaluation by the provider.
Choice B Reason:
The client reports severe itching under the cast is incorrect. While itching can be uncomfortable, it might not pose an immediate threat. Itching can commonly occur as the skin heals and can be managed through non-invasive means.
Choice C Reason:
The client's capillary refill is 3 seconds is incorrect. A capillary refill of 3 seconds is slightly prolonged but doesn't typically indicates an immediate emergency. However, if this finding worsens or if combined with other concerning symptoms, it might warrant further assessment.
Choice D Reason:
The client reports increased pain at the area of the fracture is incorrect. Increased pain after a cast application can be expected initially, especially within 2 hours of the procedure. However, persistent or severe pain could indicate issues like poor alignment, swelling, or other complications. While it's important to address pain, it might not require immediate reporting unless accompanied by other concerning symptoms.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
"I can take my partner outside of the room as long as they wear a mask."MRSA contact precautions typically involve limiting the spread of the bacteria. Taking the partner outside the room while wearing a mask might not be sufficient for infection control, as MRSA can spread through direct contact with surfaces. This statement might not indicate a full understanding of MRSA precautions.
Choice B Reason:
"I will wash my hands as soon as I leave the room. “Hand hygiene is a crucial component of infection control for MRSA. Washing hands with soap and water or using alcohol-based hand sanitizer after leaving the room helps prevent the spread of MRSA to oneself or others.
Choice C Reason:
"I will wear a gown when I help my partner take a bath." Wearing a gown during tasks that might involve contact with the patient's bodily fluids or surfaces that might be contaminated is recommended for MRSA precautions. This statement aligns with infection control practices.
Choice D Reason:
"I can reuse unsoiled gloves when I re-enter the room. “Reusing gloves, even if they appear unsoiled, is generally not recommended as it can contribute to the spread of MRSA. Gloves should be disposed of after each use and hands washed thoroughly.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
A client whose injection site is scabbed is incorrect. Scabbing at the injection site does not provide information about the presence or absence of induration. It doesn't contribute to interpreting the test result directly.
Choice B Reason:
A client whose injection site is firm and measures 3 mm (0.1 in) is incorrect. A measurement of 3 mm of induration is generally considered a negative result for most individuals, including those without any risk factors for tuberculosis (TB).
Choice C Reason:
A client whose injection site has an elevated area measuring 15 mm (0.6 is correct. An area of induration measuring 15 mm or more is considered positive in individuals with no known risk factors for TB.
Choice D Reason:
A client whose injection site is ecchymotic is incorrect. Ecchymosis (bruising) at the injection site is not relevant to the interpretation of the tuberculin skin test. It does not contribute to determining a positive or negative result.
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