A nurse is collecting data from a client who had a long arm cast applied 2 hr. ago. Which of the following findings of the affected extremity should the nurse report to the provider immediately?
The client's fingers are cool to the touch.
The client reports severe itching under the cast.
The client's capillary refill is 3 seconds.
The client reports increased pain at the area of the fracture.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A Reason:
The client's fingers are cool to the touch is correct. Coolness of the fingers within a short time after a cast application can indicate compromised circulation or potential compartment syndrome, which requires urgent attention to prevent tissue damage or loss of function. It suggests impaired blood flow to the fingers, which is a serious concern requiring immediate evaluation by the provider.
Choice B Reason:
The client reports severe itching under the cast is incorrect. While itching can be uncomfortable, it might not pose an immediate threat. Itching can commonly occur as the skin heals and can be managed through non-invasive means.
Choice C Reason:
The client's capillary refill is 3 seconds is incorrect. A capillary refill of 3 seconds is slightly prolonged but doesn't typically indicates an immediate emergency. However, if this finding worsens or if combined with other concerning symptoms, it might warrant further assessment.
Choice D Reason:
The client reports increased pain at the area of the fracture is incorrect. Increased pain after a cast application can be expected initially, especially within 2 hours of the procedure. However, persistent or severe pain could indicate issues like poor alignment, swelling, or other complications. While it's important to address pain, it might not require immediate reporting unless accompanied by other concerning symptoms.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Experiences nocturia is incorrect. Nocturia (waking up at night to urinate) is a common symptom and, while it's important to address for the client's comfort and potential underlying causes, it doesn't pose an immediate risk to the client's roommate or necessitate urgent intervention in a shared room setting.
Choice B Reason:
History of generalized anxiety disorder is incorrect. A history of generalized anxiety disorder is relevant to the client's mental health and overall care. However, in the context of a shared room, it might not require immediate attention or interventions that directly impact the roommate's health or safety.
Choice C Reason:
Recent exposure to tuberculosis is correct. Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. In a shared room, a history of recent exposure to TB is a significant concern as it poses a potential risk to both the client and the roommate. Immediate measures to prevent transmission and ensure proper isolation protocols are necessary to protect the health of both individuals in the shared space.
Choice D Reason:
Reports periodic migraine headaches is correct.
Periodic migraine headaches are a health concern for the client experiencing them, but they typically do not pose an immediate risk or concern for the client's roommate. While addressing pain management is important, it might not require immediate action in the shared room environment.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
"I can take my partner outside of the room as long as they wear a mask."MRSA contact precautions typically involve limiting the spread of the bacteria. Taking the partner outside the room while wearing a mask might not be sufficient for infection control, as MRSA can spread through direct contact with surfaces. This statement might not indicate a full understanding of MRSA precautions.
Choice B Reason:
"I will wash my hands as soon as I leave the room. “Hand hygiene is a crucial component of infection control for MRSA. Washing hands with soap and water or using alcohol-based hand sanitizer after leaving the room helps prevent the spread of MRSA to oneself or others.
Choice C Reason:
"I will wear a gown when I help my partner take a bath." Wearing a gown during tasks that might involve contact with the patient's bodily fluids or surfaces that might be contaminated is recommended for MRSA precautions. This statement aligns with infection control practices.
Choice D Reason:
"I can reuse unsoiled gloves when I re-enter the room. “Reusing gloves, even if they appear unsoiled, is generally not recommended as it can contribute to the spread of MRSA. Gloves should be disposed of after each use and hands washed thoroughly.
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