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.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Elevated levels of MSAFP may indicate that the baby is at risk of a neural tube defect, like spina bifida.
However, further testing is required to confirm the results and determine the cause of the elevated levels.
Choice A is incorrect because low levels of MSAFP may indicate a risk for Down syndrome, not elevated levels.
Choice B is incorrect because while elevated levels of MSAFP may indicate a risk for neural tube defects, further testing is required to confirm this.
Choice D is incorrect because while repeating the test may be necessary, further testing beyond just repeating the MSAFP screening may also be required.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
This is a variation of the side-lying position, which is recommended for pregnant women in the third trimester to improve blood flow to the uterus and the baby12.
Sleeping on the right side with a pillow under the hip can also help relieve pressure on the inferior vena cava, a large vein that carries blood from the lower body to the heart.
Sleeping on the back can cause lightheadedness and dizziness because of this pressure, as well as increase the risk of stillbirth1.
Choice B.
Without a pillow is incorrect, as this can make sleeping on the side uncomfortable and cause back pain or leg cramps.
Choice C.
with a pillow under her shoulders is incorrect, as this can elevate the upper body and worsen heartburn, a common problem in pregnancy.
Choice D.
with a pillow under both hips is incorrect, as this can make sleeping on the back more likely, which is not advised for pregnant women in the third trimester1.
Therefore, choice A is the best answer.
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