A nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with a fractured left tibia and fibula. Which data should the nurse report to the healthcare provider immediately?
Localized edema and discoloration occurring hours after the injury
Pain relieved after taking 4 mg of hydromorphone
Pedal pulses cannot be located with a Doppler and complaints of increasing pain
Generalized weakness and pain at the site of injury
The Correct Answer is C
A. Localized edema and discoloration are expected findings after a fracture and do not typically require immediate reporting unless they are accompanied by signs of compartment syndrome or other complications.
B. Pain relieved by hydromorphone indicates that the pain is being effectively managed. This does not require immediate reporting to the healthcare provider.
C. The absence of pedal pulses, even with the use of a Doppler, combined with increasing pain, is a critical finding that suggests compromised circulation, possibly due to compartment syndrome. This is a medical emergency requiring immediate intervention to prevent permanent tissue damage or loss of the limb.
D. Generalized weakness and pain at the site of injury are common findings after a fracture and do not indicate an urgent complication unless associated with other concerning symptoms.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. An oblique fracture occurs at an angle across the bone and is not characterized by the bone being splintered into several pieces.
B. An impacted fracture occurs when one bone fragment is driven into another, which is not the case here, as the bone is splintered into several pieces.
C. A transverse fracture occurs when the bone breaks in a straight line across the shaft. This does not match the description of the bone being splintered into multiple pieces.
D. A comminuted fracture is when the bone is broken into multiple fragments, which aligns with the description of the client’s fracture. This type of fracture is often caused by high-impact trauma and requires careful management to ensure proper healing.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Securing the oxygen tubing to the bed sheet near the client's head is not an appropriate action because it may lead to accidental disconnection or kinking of the tubing, which could impair oxygen delivery. Tubing should be secured in a way that minimizes movement and risk of interference.
B. Removing the nasal cannula while the client eats is not recommended, as it interrupts oxygen therapy, potentially causing hypoxia. The client can usually eat with the nasal cannula in place unless instructed otherwise.
C. Applying petroleum jelly to the nares is contraindicated because petroleum jelly is flammable and poses a safety risk in the presence of oxygen. Water-based lubricants should be used instead to soothe mucous membranes.
D. Attaching a humidifier bottle to the base of the flow meter is the correct action for oxygen therapy at 4L/min. Humidification helps prevent dryness and irritation of the mucous membranes caused by prolonged oxygen therapy.
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