A nurse is collecting data on a client who has swelling of the lower leg. The nurse should identify that which of the following findings is a manifestation of compartment syndrome?

c. Dispose of the used needle immediately in a sharps container.

The nurse should dispose of the used needle immediately in a sharps container to reduce the risk of a needlestick injury. Sharps containers are specifically designed for the safe disposal of needles and other sharp objects. By placing the used needle directly into a sharps container, the nurse eliminates the need for handling or manipulating the needle further, reducing the risk of accidental needlestick injuries.

Explanation for the other options:

a. Place a cap holder securely on the used needle before disposal: Cap holders are not recommended for securing used needles before disposal. They may not provide adequate protection against needlestick injuries and can potentially increase the risk of accidental needlesticks when atempting to secure the cap holder.

b. Recap the needle for disposal later: Recapping the needle increases the risk of a needlestick injury. It is generally not recommended to recap needles after use, as it poses a greater risk of accidental puncture.

d. Detach the used needle and dispose of it promptly: Detaching the needle from the syringe before disposal is not recommended, as it increases the risk of a needlestick injury. It is safer to dispose of the needle and syringe as a unit in a sharps container to minimize the risk of accidental puncture.

A respiratory rate of 8 breaths per minute with shallow respirations and cyanosis indicates severe respiratory distress or failure. In this situation, the client's oxygenation is compromised, and immediate intervention is needed to ensure an open and unobstructed airway. The nurse should prioritize ensuring the client has a patent airway by assessing for any airway obstruction and taking appropriate measures to clear the airway if necessary. This may involve techniques such as the head tilt-chin lift or jaw thrust maneuver.

While administering oxygen, checking the client's pulse rate, and placing a pulse oximeter on the client's finger are all important interventions in managing respiratory distress, the first and most critical step is to establish a patent airway. Without a clear airway, the client's oxygenation cannot be adequately addressed, and other interventions may be ineffective. Once the airway is secured, the nurse can proceed with providing oxygen, assessing the client's vital signs, and monitoring oxygen saturation using a pulse oximeter.