A nurse is completing a neurovascular check for a client who had an open reduction internal fixation surgery. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as possible manifestations of compartment syndrome? (Select all that apply)
Absence of pulse
Altered sensation of the toes
Cool skin
Pain relieved by narcotics
Capillary refill 1 second
Correct Answer : A,B,C
The nurse should identify the absence of pulse, altered sensation of the toes, and cool skin as possible manifestations of compartment syndrome. Compartment syndrome is a serious condition that can occur following surgery or injury. It is characterized by increased pressure within a muscle compartment that can lead to decreased blood flow and nerve damage.
Pain relieved by narcotics and capillary refill of 1 second are not manifestations of compartment syndrome. Pain relieved by narcotics is a normal response to pain medication. A capillary refill of 1 second is within the normal range and does not indicate compartment syndrome.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The first action the nurse should perform is to check the client's temperature. A headache and stiff neck can be symptoms of meningitis, which is an inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Meningitis can be caused by a bacterial or viral infection and is often accompanied by a fever. Checking the client's temperature can help determine if the client has a fever and if further evaluation for meningitis is necessary.
Obtaining a throat culture specimen is not the first action the nurse should take.
Performing a complete blood count is not the first action the nurse should take.
Administering an oral analgesic is not the first action the nurse should take.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The nurse should expect to find edema of the toes first if the cast is too tight. A cast that is too tight can impede blood flow and cause swelling (edema) of the toes. If the nurse notices edema of the toes, they should report this finding to the provider and take appropriate action to prevent further complications.
Toes cool to touch may occur if the cast is too tight but this is not typically the first finding.
The inability to move toes may occur if the cast is too tight but this is not typically the first finding.
The pallor of the toes may occur if the cast is too tight but this is not typically the first finding.
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