A nurse is caring for a client who has a fractured arm in a cast. Which of the following findings about the affected arm should the nurse report to the provider?
Active movement is present
Pain is 4 on scale of 0 to 10
Capillary refit is less than 2 seconds
Skin is cool to the touch
The Correct Answer is D
A. Active movement is present: The presence of active movement in the fingers and toes of the affected arm indicates that nerve and muscle function are intact, which is a positive finding. It indicates there is no impairment in function of the affected arm.
B. Pain is 4 on scale of 0 to 10: A pain level of 4 is moderate pain and might be expected after a fracture. As long as pain is being managed appropriately with prescribed medications and no other concerning symptoms are present, it does not necessarily require immediate reporting.
C. Capillary refill is less than 2 seconds: A capillary refill time of less than 2 seconds is normal. This suggests good blood flow to the affected arm and is not an issue that needs reporting.
D. Skin is cool to the touch: A cool skin temperature on the affected arm could indicate impaired circulation, possibly due to swelling or tightness of the cast, which could lead to compartment syndrome—a serious condition that requires immediate intervention. Therefore, this finding should be reported to the provider immediately.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Psychologist: A psychologist focuses on mental health assessment and therapy rather than medication management. While they are essential for emotional and psychological support, they are not trained to evaluate or address potential drug interactions in a client's medication regimen.
B. Advanced practice nurse: An advanced practice nurse, such as a nurse practitioner, has the education and authority to assess medication regimens, recognize potential drug interactions, and make adjustments or recommendations. They are well-qualified to manage complex medication issues and collaborate closely with prescribing providers.
C. Patient care technician: Patient care technicians assist with basic care activities such as hygiene, mobility, and vital signs monitoring but do not have the education or licensure required to evaluate medications. They are not involved in clinical decision-making regarding pharmacologic therapy.
D. Social worker: A social worker provides resources for social support, financial assistance, and counseling, but medication management is outside their scope of practice. They are valuable for holistic care but not for assessing or managing drug interactions specifically.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Encourage the client to include celery in their diet: Celery is high in fiber and stringy, which can increase the risk of obstruction in a client with a new ileostomy. Clients should avoid foods that can block the stoma until healing is complete and they are accustomed to managing their ostomy.
B. Cleanse around the client's stoma with hydrogen peroxide: Hydrogen peroxide can damage healthy skin and tissue around the stoma. The area should be cleansed gently with warm water and mild soap, avoiding harsh or irritating substances to promote skin integrity.
C. Cut the skin barrier opening 2.5 cm (1 in) larger than the stoma: The skin barrier opening should be no more than 1/8 inch (about 0.3 cm) larger than the stoma. A larger opening exposes more skin to stoma output, increasing the risk for skin irritation and breakdown.
D. Empty the client's pouch when it is halfway full: Emptying the pouch when it is about halfway full prevents the weight from pulling on the seal, reducing the risk of leaks and protecting the skin. It also maintains client comfort and reduces the chance of pouch rupture.
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