After falling down the basement steps, a client is brought to the emergency room. X-rays confirms that the client's right leg is fractured. Following application of a leg cast, which assessment finding warrants immediate intervention by the nurse?

Increased temperature to lower extremity.

Right foot pale with sluggish capillary refill.

Circumferential edema of right foot.

Complaint of throbbing right leg pain

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

A. Increased temperature to the lower extremity:
While increased temperature could indicate inflammation or infection, it is not as immediately concerning as impaired circulation.

B. Right foot pale with sluggish capillary refill.
This finding suggests a potential impairment in blood flow to the right foot, which could be due to complications such as compartment syndrome or impaired circulation. Compartment syndrome is a serious condition that occurs when there is increased pressure within a muscle compartment, leading to reduced blood flow. Pale color and sluggish capillary refill indicate compromised circulation and require prompt intervention to prevent further damage.

C. Circumferential edema of the right foot:
Edema is a common finding after a fracture and cast application. However, in the context of pale color and sluggish capillary refill, it may indicate increased pressure within the compartment, requiring immediate attention.

D. Complaint of throbbing right leg pain:
Pain is a common complaint after a fracture, and throbbing pain may be expected. However, the priority is to address the potential compromise in circulation indicated by the pale color and sluggish capillary refill.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. Guidelines for oxygen use:
While guidelines for oxygen use are important, addressing the root cause of the respiratory condition, which includes smoking cessation, is crucial for long-term management.

B. Methods for weight loss:
Obesity can contribute to respiratory issues, but in the immediate context of emphysema exacerbation and the need for oxygen therapy, smoking cessation is a more urgent concern.

C. Approaches to conserve energy:
Conserving energy is important for clients with emphysema, but addressing the impact of smoking on respiratory function is a more immediate priority.

D. Strategies for smoking cessation.
Smoking is a major contributor to the progression of emphysema and exacerbation of respiratory symptoms. Addressing smoking cessation is crucial in improving the client's respiratory function and overall health. Continuing to smoke can exacerbate emphysema and compromise the effectiveness of other interventions, including oxygen therapy.

A. Blood pH level. B. Platelet count. C. Hematocrit D. White blood cell (WBC) count.

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. Blood pH level:
The blood pH level is important for assessing the acid-base balance in the body. However, in the context of purulent drainage from a wound, it is not the primary laboratory value to review for signs of infection.

B. Platelet count:
Platelet count is important for assessing blood clotting ability. While it is a valuable parameter in overall care, it may not be directly related to the observation of purulent drainage from a wound, which typically suggests infection rather than a clotting issue.

C. Hematocrit:
Hematocrit measures the proportion of blood that is cellular. Like platelet count, it is important for assessing overall blood composition and oxygen-carrying capacity. However, it may not be the first parameter to review when evaluating signs of infection.

D. White blood cell (WBC) count:
The WBC count is a crucial parameter when assessing for infection. An elevated WBC count is a common response to infection as the body mobilizes its immune defenses. Reviewing the WBC count is particularly relevant when purulent drainage is observed, as it may indicate an inflammatory response to infection.

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After falling down the basement steps, a client is brought to the emergency room. X-rays confirms that the client's right leg is fractured. Following application of a leg cast, which assessment finding warrants immediate intervention by the nurse?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

While caring for a client with a full thickness burn covering 40% of the body, the nurse observes purulent drainage at the wound. Before reporting this finding to the healthcare provider, the nurse should review which of the client's laboratory values?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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