A nurse is discussing health practices with the mother of a toddler who is from a different cultural background than the nurse. Which of the following statements by the mother indicates that she practices cupping?

A. Blurred vision: Blurred vision during the third trimester can indicate a serious complication such as preeclampsia, which requires immediate reporting. It may signal elevated blood pressure and possible central nervous system involvement. Prompt communication with the provider is essential for maternal and fetal safety.

B. Leg cramps: Leg cramps are a common discomfort during pregnancy due to changes in circulation and pressure from the growing uterus. While uncomfortable, they are not considered an urgent finding that requires reporting.

C. Urinary frequency: Increased urinary frequency is typical in the third trimester as the enlarging uterus places pressure on the bladder. This is expected and usually does not indicate a complication unless accompanied by other symptoms such as pain or dysuria.

D. Gingivitis: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can lead to gum inflammation and bleeding. While oral care should be reinforced, gingivitis is a common, non-urgent finding and does not require immediate reporting to the provider.

Rationale for correct choices:

• Compartment syndrome: The client demonstrates classic neurovascular compromise: severe escalating pain, numbness, inability to move toes, cool extremity, absent distal pulses, delayed capillary refill, and increasing edema. These findings reflect increased intracompartmental pressure compromising circulation and nerve function. This is a limb-threatening postoperative emergency following fractures and splinting.

• Osteomyelitis: The client has an open fracture with internal fixation, drainage at the surgical site, fever, and a marked rise in WBC count. Open fractures significantly increase the risk of bone infection due to direct contamination. Persistent fever and leukocytosis support developing osteomyelitis rather than normal postoperative inflammation.

Rationale for incorrect choices:

• Fat embolism syndrome: Fat embolism typically presents with acute respiratory distress, hypoxemia, altered mental status, and petechial rash. This client maintains adequate oxygen saturation and denies shortness of breath, making this condition less likely at this time.

• Deep vein thrombosis: DVT commonly presents with unilateral calf pain, warmth, erythema, and swelling, but does not cause absent pulses, motor loss, or sensory deficits. The acute neurovascular changes seen here point to arterial compromise rather than venous obstruction.