A nurse is caring for a client who is 6 hours postoperative following the application of an external fixator for a tibial fracture.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Wrap sterile gauze on the sharp point of the pins.
Adjust the clamps on the fixator frame.
Maintain the affected extremity in a dependent position.
Palpate the dorsalis pedis pulse.
The Correct Answer is D
The nurse should palpate the dorsalis pedis pulse.
This is to assess for peripheral neurovascular dysfunction, which is a potential complication of a tibial fracture.
Choice A, wrapping sterile gauze on the sharp point of the pins, is not an answer because it is not mentioned in the search results as an intervention for a client with an external fixator for a tibial fracture.
Choice B, adjusting the clamps on the fixator frame, is not an answer because it is not mentioned in the search results as an intervention for a client with an external fixator for a tibial fracture.
Choice C, maintaining the affected extremity in a dependent position, is not an answer because it is not mentioned in the search results as an intervention for a client with an external fixator for a tibial fracture.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
“Furosemide.” The nurse should anticipate administering furosemide because the client’s symptoms of bounding peripheral pulses, hypertension, and distended jugular veins may indicate fluid overload.
Furosemide is a diuretic medication that can help reduce fluid overload by increasing urine output.
Choice A is incorrect because diphenhydramine is an antihistamine medication that is not used to treat fluid overload.
Choice C is incorrect because acetaminophen is a pain reliever and fever reducer that is not used to treat fluid overload.
Choice D is incorrect because pantoprazole is a proton pump inhibitor that is used to treat acid reflux and stomach ulcers, not fluid overload.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A pneumothorax is a collapsed lung that occurs when air leaks into the space between the lung and the chest wall.
This can cause diminished breath sounds on the affected side. Distended neck veins are not a symptom of pneumothorax.
B) Itching over the incision is not a symptom of pneumothorax.
C) Irregular heart rate is not a symptom of pneumothorax.
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