Patient data
The nurse considers the brief interaction with the client and the triage report.
Which finding(s) should the nurse investigate further? Select all that apply.
Left arm that is cool to touch
Decreased range of motion
Swelling at the site of injury
Intense pain reported by client
Oxygen saturation 95% on room air
Blood pressure of 136/90 mm Hg
Nausea and fatigue reported by client
Bone misalignment
Correct Answer : A,B,D,G,H
A. Left arm that is cool to touch: A cool extremity can indicate impaired circulation, which is a priority concern after trauma. It may suggest compromised perfusion or neurovascular compromise, requiring immediate further investigation.
B. Decreased range of motion: The inability to move the left arm signals possible fracture, dislocation, or neurovascular impairment. Limited mobility after trauma should always be investigated to determine the extent of musculoskeletal injury.
C. Swelling at the site of injury: Swelling is expected following trauma and does not necessarily indicate a complication. While it should be monitored, it is not as urgent to investigate further compared with circulation or alignment changes.
D. Intense pain reported by client: Severe, constant pain out of proportion to the injury raises concern for complications such as compartment syndrome, fracture, or vascular compromise. This finding requires prompt further assessment and intervention.
E. Oxygen saturation 95% on room air: Although slightly lower than ideal, this level is still acceptable in an older adult and not immediately alarming. It does not require urgent further investigation compared to other more critical findings.
F. Blood pressure of 136/90 mm Hg: This blood pressure indicates mild hypertension but is not an acute concern in the setting of trauma. It does not require urgent investigation at this point.
G. Nausea and fatigue reported by client: These symptoms may suggest a head injury, concussion, or internal response to trauma. Given the reported head impact, these findings warrant further neurological evaluation.
H. Bone misalignment: Visible misalignment strongly suggests fracture or dislocation. This finding must be investigated further to confirm the diagnosis and prevent neurovascular complications.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is {"A":{"answers":"A"},"B":{"answers":"A"},"C":{"answers":"B"},"D":{"answers":"A"},"E":{"answers":"A"},"F":{"answers":"A"}}
Explanation
• Palpate and compare radial pulses: Assessing radial pulses bilaterally is essential after humeral fracture and surgical repair because neurovascular compromise is a major complication. Detecting differences in pulse quality can help identify impaired circulation or compartment syndrome early.
• Administer ondansetron 4 mg IV: The client reports nausea postoperatively, which can increase discomfort and risk for aspiration. Ondansetron is prescribed and effective in controlling nausea by blocking serotonin receptors in the gut and brain, making it an appropriate intervention.
• Perform range of motion: With a displaced humeral head/neck fracture and immediate postoperative status, range-of-motion exercises are contraindicated. Movement of the joint could disrupt fixation, increase bleeding, or worsen pain. Immobilization and stabilization are priorities.
• Provide morphine 2 mg IV push (IVP): The client has a prescription for morphine for severe pain, and his reported pain was previously 10/10 before surgery. Administering morphine is indicated to ensure adequate pain control, prevent sympathetic stress responses, and promote rest and healing.
• Inspect the bandage for drainage: Checking the surgical bandage is necessary to monitor for bleeding or excessive drainage, which may indicate complications such as hemorrhage or infection. Since the order specifies not to remove the dressing, visual inspection only is the correct approach.
• Check capillary refill on bilateral upper extremities: Capillary refill helps evaluate peripheral perfusion, which is critical after orthopedic surgery. Comparing both extremities provides baseline data and helps detect vascular compromise that could threaten limb viability.
Correct Answer is ["C","D"]
Explanation
A. Fever greater than 101.5° F (38.6° C): Fever may indicate infection, such as meningitis or shunt infection, but it is not a primary sign of increased intracranial pressure (ICP) in infants.
B. Decreased urinary output: Oliguria is not a typical early sign of increased ICP. While it can occur with severe systemic compromise, it is not a direct indicator of ICP changes.
C. Sunsetting eyes: The “sunsetting” sign, where the eyes appear driven downward with the sclera visible above the iris, is a classic indicator of increased ICP in infants due to hydrocephalus and should be closely monitored.
D. Bulging anterior fontanel: A bulging anterior fontanel reflects increased pressure within the cranial vault and is a key early sign of increased ICP in infants.
E. Jugular venous distension: Jugular venous distension is more indicative of cardiac or fluid overload issues rather than increased ICP in infants.
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