A nurse is collecting data from a child who has acute glomerulonephritis.

Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

Compartment syndrome occurs when there is increased pressure within a closed muscle compartment, leading to reduced blood flow to the muscles and nerves in that compartment. In this case, the open fracture and subsequent reduction and stabilization procedure can cause swelling and increased pressure within the affected compartment. This can impede blood flow and potentially lead to tissue damage. Common symptoms include severe pain, swelling, numbness, and decreased or absent pulses. Immediate medical attention is necessary if compartment syndrome is suspected.

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) refers to the formation of blood clots within the deep veins, typically in the lower extremities. In the case of a client with an open fracture and immobilization with a splint, the risk of DVT increases due to factors such as reduced mobility, injury to blood vessels, and blood stasis. DVT can lead to serious complications if a clot dislodges and travels to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism. Symptoms of DVT may include pain, swelling, warmth, and redness in the affected limb.

While osteomyelitis and fat embolism syndrome can occur as complications of long bone fractures, they are not explicitly mentioned in the given scenario. Osteomyelitis refers to an infection in the bone, which can develop if bacteria enter an open fracture. Fat embolism syndrome can occur when fat globules from the bone marrow enter the bloodstream, usually following a long bone fracture.

d. Increased joint stiffness due to loss of elasticity in joint cartilage.

Explanation:

The correct answer is d. Increased joint stiffness due to loss of elasticity in joint cartilage.

When teaching an older adult client about age-related changes, it is important for the nurse to provide accurate and relevant information. Joint stiffness is a commonly experienced age-related change that occurs due to the natural loss of elasticity in joint cartilage. As people age, their joints may become stiffer and less flexible, making movements and activities more challenging.

Option a is not the correct answer. Increased nail growth due to the buildup of calcium deposits is not an expected age-related change. Nail growth is primarily determined by factors such as genetics, overall health, and nutritional status, rather than calcium deposits.

Option b is not the correct answer. Increased perspiration due to overproduction by the sweat glands is not an expected age-related change. In fact, older adults may experience a decrease in the production of sweat, which can make them more susceptible to heat-related illnesses and dehydration.

Option c is not the correct answer. Increased cardiac output due to weakened heart walls is not an expected age-related change. With aging, the heart muscles may become stiffer and less efficient, leading to a decrease in cardiac output rather than an increase.

By focusing on the expected age-related change of increased joint stiffness due to loss of elasticity in joint cartilage, the nurse can provide accurate information and help the older adult client understand and manage this common aspect of the aging process.