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. Right hip dislocation: In a hip dislocation, the head of the femur is forced out of the acetabulum, which is the socket in the pelvis. This can cause a noticeably shorter leg, hip deformity, and acute pain. Imaging might not show a fracture in the case of a dislocation.
B. Right hip contusion: A hip contusion is a bruise on the hip, usually caused by a direct blow or trauma. While it can cause pain and swelling, it typically does not result in a noticeably shorter leg or hip deformity.
C. Right hip strain: Hip strain refers to damage to the muscles or tendons around the hip joint due to overuse or sudden twisting movements. While it can cause pain, it does not typically lead to a noticeable leg shortening or hip deformity.
D. Right hip osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that can affect the hip joint. It leads to joint pain and stiffness but does not usually cause a noticeable leg shortening or acute deformity unless there are severe complications, which are not mentioned in the scenario.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Foam:
Explanation: Foam dressings are highly absorbent and provide cushioning and protection to wounds. They are suitable for wounds with moderate to heavy drainage. While foam dressings are excellent for wound exudate management, they are not specifically designed for protecting bony prominences or areas with poor skin integrity.
B. Non-adherent:
Explanation: Non-adherent dressings are made from materials that do not stick to the wound bed. They are ideal for fragile skin, bony prominences, or superficial wounds where minimizing trauma during dressing changes is important. Non-adherent dressings are often used for preventing further skin damage in malnourished clients with poor skin integrity.
C. Ace bandage:
Explanation: Ace bandages, or elastic bandages, are primarily used for providing compression and support to injured joints or muscles. They are not designed for protecting bony prominences or fragile skin areas. Using an Ace bandage on a bony prominence could lead to pressure points and skin damage.
D. Hydrocolloid:
Explanation: Hydrocolloid dressings are absorbent and form a gel-like barrier when they come into contact with wound exudate. They provide a moist environment that supports healing and autolytic debridement. Hydrocolloid dressings are suitable for wounds with light to moderate drainage. While they are beneficial for certain wounds, they are not specifically indicated for protecting bony prominences in malnourished clients.
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