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
This statement shows empathy and support for the client.
It also encourages the client to engage in self-care activities and promotes independence.
Choice B is not appropriate because it is a threat and does not show empathy or support for the client.
Choice C is not appropriate because it encourages the client to remain passive and does not promote independence.
Choice D is not appropriate because it is confrontational and does not show empathy or support for the client.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Difficulty climbing stairs is an early sign of muscular dystrophy.
This is because the condition causes progressive muscle weakness, which can make it difficult for the child to perform physical activities that require muscle strength.

Choice A is not the best answer because high fevers and tiredness are not specific to muscular dystrophy and can be caused by many other conditions.
Choice B is not the best answer because muscular dystrophy causes muscle weakness, not increased muscle strength.
Choice C is not the best answer because respiratory infections and obesity are not specific to muscular dystrophy and can be caused by many other conditions.
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