A 6-year-old patient who has been placed in skeletal traction has pain, edema, and fever.
The nurse should assess which of the following?
Neurologic status
Range of motion of all extremities
Warmth at site of pain
Blood pressure
The Correct Answer is C
In the given scenario, the 6-year-old patient in skeletal traction is experiencing
pain, edema, and fever. These symptoms raise concerns about the possibility of an infection
at the site of traction. In such cases, the nurse should assess for warmth at the site of pain.
Increased warmth can indicate inflammation, which may be associated with infection. This
assessment finding would require further investigation and intervention, such as notifying the
healthcare provider and obtaining appropriate cultures or imaging studies.
Neurologic status in (Option A) is incorrect because assessing neurologic status, is important
but not the priority in this scenario. Neurologic status assessment is typically performed to
evaluate any neurovascular compromise resulting from the traction, but the presence of pain,
edema, and fever suggests a potential infection that requires immediate attention.
Range of motion of all extremities in (Option B) is incorrect because assessing the range of
motion of all extremities, is not directly relevant to the given symptoms and should not take
priority over assessing for warmth at the site of pain.
Blood pressure in (Option D) is incorrect because assessing blood pressure, is not directly
related to the symptoms of pain, edema, and fever in the context of skeletal traction. While
blood pressure is an essential vital sign, it does not provide specific information about the
potential infection at the site of pain in this situation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
When caring for a neonate with a suspected tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF), nursing care should include elevating the head but giving nothing by mouth. Tracheoesophageal fistula is a condition where an abnormal connection exists between the trachea and oesophagus, leading to the passage of air and secretions between these structures. Feeding the infant orally can result in aspiration of feedings into the lungs, which can cause respiratory distress and complications. Therefore, it is important to keep the neonate in an upright position to reduce the risk of aspiration until a definitive diagnosis and treatment plan are established.
elevating the head for feedings in (option B), is not appropriate in this case as oral feedings should be avoided until the tracheoesophageal fistula is addressed.
avoiding suction unless the infant is cyanotic in (option C), is not correct. Suctioning may be necessary in neonates with suspected tracheoesophageal fistula to clear secretions and maintain a patent airway.
feeding glucose water only in (option D), is not an appropriate intervention for a neonate with a suspected tracheoesophageal fistula. In this situation, all oral feedings should be withheld until further evaluation and management.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The most appropriate statement by the nurse to a 15-year-old whose friend has mentioned suicide is option A. The statement acknowledges the seriousness of the situation and emphasizes the importance of taking the friend's threat seriously. It also highlights the need for immediate help and intervention. Suicide threats should never be dismissed or taken lightly, and it is crucial to involve professionals who can provide appropriate support and assistance.
"Tell your friend to come to the clinic immediately," in option B is incorrect because places the responsibility solely on the 15-year-old to relay the message to their friend, which may not be the most effective or timely approach.
"If your friend mentions suicide again, get your friend some help," in (option C) is incorrect because it does not address the urgency of the situation. Waiting for the friend to mention suicide again before acting may lead to potential harm.
"You need to gather details about your friend's suicide plan," is incorrect because places the responsibility on the 15-year-old to gather information about the friend's suicidal intentions. While understanding the situation and obtaining relevant details is important, the immediate priority is ensuring the friend's safety and seeking professional help.
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