The nurse caring for a child who has been put into a leg cast must be on alert for signs of nerve and muscle damage.
Which symptom might be an early warning signal that the child has developed compartment syndrome?
Has blue-looking nail beds on the toes.
Has a weak femoral pulse.
Cannot plantarflex his foot.
Feels increasing severe pain.
The Correct Answer is D
Compartment syndrome is a condition where increased pressure within a muscle compartment causes muscle and nerve damage along with pain.
One of the symptoms of compartment syndrome is severe pain that increases with the stretching of muscles.
Choice A is not correct because blue-looking nail beds on the toes are not a symptom of compartment syndrome.
Choice B is not correct because a weak femoral pulse is not a symptom of compartment syndrome.
Choice C is not correct because the inability to plantarflex the foot is not a symptom of compartment syndrome.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A client who has a blood pressure of 140/90 mm Hg. Hypertension is a contraindication to oral contraceptives.
Choice B is incorrect because having a menstrual cycle every 14 days is not a contraindication to oral contraceptives.
Choice C is incorrect because having a hematocrit of 39% is not a contraindication to oral contraceptives.
Choice D is incorrect because being 15 years old and having acne is not a contraindication to oral contraceptives.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The nurse should assist the client to shift position every 4 hours to prevent complications such as pressure ulcers and pneumonia.
Choice A is incorrect because the weights on the traction should be freely hanging and not touching any part of the bed.
Choice B is incorrect because isometric exercises may not be appropriate for a client with a femur fracture and should be prescribed by a healthcare provider.
Choice C is incorrect because administering pain medication before performing pin care may not be necessary and should be based on the client’s level of pain and the healthcare provider’s orders.
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