Which assessment is a nonverbal sign of pain? (Select all that apply.)

Choice A reason: Stage 4 is the remodeling stage of bone healing, which occurs from 6 to 12 weeks after the fracture. In this stage, the callus, which is a mass of fibrous tissue and cartilage that forms around the fracture site, is gradually resorbed and replaced by mature bone. The bone becomes stronger and more compact and regains its original shape and function.

Choice B reason: Stage 3 is the callus formation stage of bone healing, which occurs from 2 to 6 weeks after the fracture. In this stage, the granulation tissue, which is a soft tissue that fills the fracture gap, is replaced by a callus that bridges the fracture ends. The callus is composed of fibroblasts, chondroblasts, and osteoblasts that produce collagen, cartilage, and bone matrix. The callus stabilizes the fracture and prepares it for remodeling.

Choice C reason: Stage 5 is not a valid stage of bone healing. There are only four stages of bone healing: stage 1 is the inflammatory stage, stage 2 is the reparative stage, stage 3 is the callus formation stage, and stage 4 is the remodeling stage.

Choice D reason: Stage 1 is the inflammatory stage of bone healing, which occurs from the time of the fracture to 3 to 5 days after the fracture. In this stage, the blood vessels around the fracture site are ruptured and form a hematoma, which is a blood clot that surrounds the fracture ends. The hematoma triggers an inflammatory response that involves the release of cytokines, growth factors, and inflammatory cells that initiate the healing process. The hematoma also provides a scaffold for the granulation tissue to grow.

Choice A reason: Color is an important indicator of the blood flow and oxygenation to the affected extremity. The nurse should compare the color of the skin, nails, and mucous membranes of the affected and unaffected extremities and look for any signs of pallor, cyanosis, or mottling. These signs can indicate ischemia, hypoxia, or impaired circulation, which can lead to tissue damage or necrosis.

Choice B reason: Temperature is another important indicator of the blood flow and oxygenation to the affected extremity. The nurse should compare the temperature of the skin of the affected and unaffected extremities by palpating with the back of the hand and look for any signs of warmth or coolness. These signs can indicate inflammation, infection, or reduced perfusion, which can affect the healing process or cause complications.

Choice C reason: Ecchymosis is not an indicator of the neurovascular status of the affected extremity. Ecchymosis is the discoloration of the skin caused by bleeding under the skin, which can result from trauma, surgery, or anticoagulant therapy. Ecchymosis is expected after an ORIF of a femur fracture and does not necessarily indicate a problem with the blood flow or oxygenation to the extremity.

Choice D reason: Skin integrity is not an indicator of the neurovascular status of the affected extremity. Skin integrity is the condition of the skin and its ability to resist damage, infection, or breakdown. Skin integrity can be affected by factors such as pressure, friction, moisture, or foreign bodies. The nurse should assess the skin integrity of the affected extremity and look for any signs of wounds, ulcers, or infections, but these signs do not reflect the neurovascular status of the extremity.

Choice E reason: Sensation is an important indicator of the nerve function and innervation of the affected extremity. The nurse should assess the sensation of the affected extremity by asking the client to report any numbness, tingling, or pain, or by testing the client's response to light touch, pressure, or temperature. These signs can indicate nerve damage, compression, or irritation, which can affect the mobility and function of the extremity.