A nurse is collecting data on a client who has swelling of the lower leg. The nurse should identify that which of the following findings is a manifestation of compartment syndrome?
Affected extremity warm to touch
Moderate pain on the ankle of the affected extremity
Blanch time of 2 seconds in the toenail beds of the affected extremity
Palpation of a +1 dorsal pedal pulse of the affected extremity
The Correct Answer is B
A nurse collecting data on a client who has swelling of the lower leg should identify that moderate pain on the ankle of the affected extremity is a manifestation of compartment syndrome. Compartment syndrome is a painful condition that occurs when pressure within a muscle compartment increases to dangerous levels.
The other options are not typical symptoms of compartment syndrome.
a) An affected extremity being warm to touch is not a typical symptom of compartment syndrome.
c) A blanch time of 2 seconds in the toenail beds of the affected extremity is not a typical symptom of compartment syndrome.
d) Palpation of a +1 dorsal pedal pulse of the affected extremity is not a typical symptom of
compartment syndrome.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The first action the nurse should take is to reevaluate the client's response to the medication in 30 min. Hydromorphone has an onset of action of 15 to 30 minutes when taken orally ¹. Therefore, it may take some time for the medication to reach its full effect.
Option a is incorrect because it may not be necessary to contact the provider for more pain medication until after reevaluating the client's response to the medication.
Option b is incorrect because teaching relaxation techniques may not provide immediate relief for acute pain.
Option c is incorrect because documenting the client's reaction to the administration of medication should be done after reevaluating their response to the medication.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
d. Remove the IV catheter.
Explanation:
The correct answer is d. Remove the IV catheter.
If the nurse realizes that the incorrect IV solution is infusing, it is essential to take prompt action to prevent harm to the client. Removing the IV catheter is the appropriate course of action to stop the infusion of the incorrect solution.
Option a, completing an incident report, may be necessary after the immediate situation has been addressed, but it should not be the nurse's first action. The priority is to stop the incorrect solution from infusing.
Option b, allowing the current solution to finish infusing and then changing the bag, is not the correct action. Continuing the infusion of the incorrect solution can potentially harm the client and must be stopped immediately.
Option c, documenting that an error occurred in the client's medical record, is important, but it should be done after taking immediate action to stop the incorrect solution from infusing. Documentation should include the details of the incident, any actions taken, and the client's response.
By promptly removing the IV catheter, the nurse stops the infusion of the incorrect solution and prevents further harm to the client. Afterward, the nurse should assess the client for any adverse effects, inform the appropriate healthcare providers, and follow the facility's policies and procedures for reporting incidents and documenting the error.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today