The nurse is assessing the adolescent 4 hr following fasciotomy. Highlight the findings below that indicate the adolescent's condition is improving.

Admission Assessment

1400:

Adolescent brought to emergency department by parents following a fall while skateboarding. Adolescent reports pain in their right leg as 10 on a scale of 0 to 10 and is unable to bear weight.

Adolescent is awake, alert, and oriented x 3. Lungs clear, respirations even and regular. S1 and S2 with regular rate and rhythm. Abdomen soft and nontender with active bowel sounds in all four quadrants. Right lower extremity with open wound and displaced bone. Right lower extremity pulse +1, extremity cool to touch, edema present, capillary refill 4 seconds.

Nurses' Notes 2300:

Adolescent is drowsy and reports nausea. Respirations shallow. Lungs clear. Unproductive cough present. S1 and S2 with regular rate and rhythm. Abdomen soft and nontender with hypoactive bowel sounds in all four quadrants. Right lower extremity fasciotomy, dressing clean, dry, and intact. Extremity pulse +3. Capillary refill 2 seconds. Right extremity is warm to the touch. Adolescent reports no numbness or tingling. Adolescent reports pain as 2 on a scale of 0 to 10.

A. Radial vein of the inner arm. This is correct because this site is easily accessible, has good blood flow, and has less risk of complications such as infection, thrombosis, or infiltration.

B. Great saphenous vein of the leg. This is incorrect because this site is not recommended for older adults due to poor circulation, increased risk of thrombophlebitis, and difficulty in monitoring.

C. Dorsal plexus vein of the foot. This is incorrect because this site is prone to edema, infection, and injury, and can interfere with mobility and comfort.

D. Basilic vein of the hand. This is incorrect because this site is more painful, has smaller veins, and can cause nerve damage or occlusion if not inserted carefully.

A. Incorrect. Withholding pain medications for 24 hr after the old patch is removed is a harmful action that could cause severe withdrawal symptoms and uncontrolled pain for the client. The nurse should respect the client's right to refuse treatment and explore the reasons for their decision.

B. Correct. Asking another nurse to witness the disposal of the new patch is a safe and legal action that follows the policies and procedures for handling controlled substances. The nurse should document the disposal of the new patch and report it to the appropriate authority.

C. Incorrect. Sealing the patches in a plastic bag and placing them in the client's trash basket is an unsafe and illegal action that could lead to diversion, misuse, or accidental exposure of fentanyl to others. The nurse should dispose of the patches in a secure and designated container that prevents access by unauthorized persons.

D. Incorrect. Sticking the two patches to each other and placing them in the sharps bin is an unsafe and improper action that could cause contamination, injury, or infection to others who handle or dispose of sharps waste. The nurse should dispose of the patches separately and carefully, avoiding contact with their adhesive surfaces.