A nurse notes increasing edema in the calf of a client who has multiple fractures of the leg. The nurse should recognize that increasing edema is a manifestation of which of the following complications?
Malignant hypothermia
Pulmonary embolism
Acute compartment syndrome
Fat embolism syndrome
The Correct Answer is C
A. Malignant hypothermia: This is a rare but life-threatening reaction to certain medications used during anesthesia. It doesn't typically manifest with calf edema.
B. Pulmonary embolism: While pulmonary embolism can occur as a complication in some cases, it is characterized by symptoms like sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, and may not directly cause calf edema.
C. Acute compartment syndrome
Increasing edema in the calf of a client with multiple fractures of the leg is a manifestation of acute compartment syndrome. Acute compartment syndrome occurs when there is increased pressure within a muscle compartment, which can lead to reduced blood flow, nerve damage, and tissue hypoxia. The edema and increased pressure can compress blood vessels, nerves, and muscle tissue within the compartment, resulting in symptoms such as severe pain, edema, and potential vascular compromise.
D. Fat embolism syndrome: This syndrome can occur in clients with long bone fractures, but it is characterized by respiratory and neurologic symptoms, not isolated calf edema.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Calcium Oxalate
The most common substance found in the analysis of renal stones is calcium oxalate. Calcium oxalate stones are the most prevalent type of kidney stones, accounting for the majority of cases. These stones can form when there is an excess of calcium or oxalate in the urine, and they can vary in size and shape. Other types of kidney stones include uric acid stones, struvite stones (magnesium-ammonium phosphate), and cystine stones, but calcium oxalate stones are the most common.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","E"]
Explanation
A. Applying ice intermittently - Ice application helps reduce swelling and inflammation by constricting blood vessels. It is effective in managing pain and preventing further tissue damage in contusions, strains, and sprains.
B. Elevating the injured limb - Elevating the injured limb above the level of the heart helps reduce swelling by allowing fluids to drain away from the injured area. This is particularly important in managing contusions, strains, and sprains where swelling is a common symptom. Elevation supports the body's natural healing processes.
C. Resting the affected extremity - Rest is essential to allow the injured tissue to heal. Avoiding movement and stress on the affected area prevents further damage and promotes the healing process. Resting the extremity prevents additional strain on the injured muscles, ligaments, or tendons, allowing the body to repair the damaged tissues effectively.
D. Massaging the affected limb - Massaging the affected limb is generally not recommended in the acute phase of musculoskeletal injuries, especially contusions, strains, or sprains. Massaging can potentially worsen the injury, increase swelling, and cause further tissue damage. It is important to wait until the initial acute phase has passed and consult a healthcare professional before considering massage therapy.
E. Compression dressings - Compression helps control swelling by applying pressure to the injured area. Compression dressings or bandages provide support to the injured limb, minimize swelling, and reduce the risk of further injury. However, it's essential to apply compression correctly to avoid cutting off circulation, and it's usually best done under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
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