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 ["A","B","E"]
Explanation
Compartment syndrome is a condition characterized by increased pressure within a closed anatomical space, such as a compartment in the leg. This increased pressure can compromise blood flow and nerve function. When assessing a client with a long-leg cast who reports severe pain, the nurse should be vigilant for signs and symptoms of compartment syndrome.
Option a is a correct answer because pallor (paleness) in the exposed portion of the left foot may indicate compromised blood flow due to increased pressure within the compartment.
Option b is a correct answer because the inability to move the left foot suggests impaired nerve function,
which can be a sign of compartment syndrome.
Option c is not a correct answer. Increased warmth is not typically associated with compartment syndrome; instead, it may suggest inflammation or infection.
Option d is not a correct answer. Ecchymosis (bruising) is not typically associated with compartment syndrome, as it is more commonly observed in cases of injury or trauma.
Option e is a correct answer because paresthesia (abnormal sensations like tingling or numbness) in the left foot can indicate nerve compression and is a potential symptom of compartment syndrome.
By identifying the presence of pallor, inability to move the foot, and paresthesia, the nurse can recognize indications of compartment syndrome and take appropriate actions to address the condition promptly.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
After the nurse administers a PRN pain medication to a client, the nurse can assign the assistive personnel (AP) to document the client's respiratory rate in 1 hour. This is within the scope of practice of an AP.
The other tasks are not appropriate for an AP to perform.
Monitoring the client for an allergic reactionand evaluating the client for therapeutic effects are both nursing assessments that should be performed by the nurse.
Checking the client's response to the medication is also a nursing assessment that should be performed by the nurse.
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