What nursing intervention is essential for the prevention of compartment syndrome in a patient with a fracture?
Administering analgesics for pain relief
Elevating the affected limb above the heart
Applying ice packs to the fracture site
Regularly monitoring neurovascular status
The Correct Answer is D
Regularly monitoring neurovascular status, including assessing pulses, capillary refill, sensation, and motor function, is essential for early detection of compartment syndrome, which can occur after a fracture. Compartment syndrome is a serious condition where increased pressure within the muscle compartment can compromise blood flow and nerve function.
a. Administering analgesics for pain relief is important, but it does not directly prevent compartment syndrome.
b. Elevating the affected limb above the heart can help reduce swelling but does not specifically prevent compartment syndrome.
c. Applying ice packs to the fracture site can help reduce pain and swelling but is not a preventive measure for compartment syndrome.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Cancer is a risk factor for pathological fractures because cancer cells can weaken bones and cause fractures, even with minimal trauma.
a. Hypertension: Hypertension is a condition characterized by high blood pressure and is not directly associated with an increased risk of fractures.
b. Diabetes mellitus: Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder that affects blood sugar levels and does not directly increase the risk of fractures.
d. Asthma: Asthma is a respiratory condition that affects the airways and lungs and is not linked to an increased risk of fractures.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
It is crucial for the patient to understand the importance of partial weight-bearing on the affected limb during the healing process. Partial weight-bearing helps promote bone healing and prevents excessive stress on the fracture site, reducing the risk of complications.
a. Encouraging immediate full weight-bearing on the affected limb can lead to further damage to the healing bone and may delay the healing process.
c. Advising the patient to avoid putting any weight on the affected limb can result in muscle atrophy, decreased circulation, and joint stiffness. Some weight-bearing is necessary for proper bone healing.
d. Instructing the patient to use assistive devices only during walking is not enough to ensure appropriate weight-bearing. The patient should follow specific weight-bearing restrictions as advised by the healthcare provider, even when using assistive devices.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.