A nurse is completing a neurovascular check for a client who had an open reduction internal fixation surgery. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as possible manifestations of compartment syndrome? (Select all that apply)
Absence of pulse
Altered sensation of the toes
Cool skin
Pain relieved by narcotics
Capillary refill 1 second
Correct Answer : A,B,C
The nurse should identify the absence of pulse, altered sensation of the toes, and cool skin as possible manifestations of compartment syndrome. Compartment syndrome is a serious condition that can occur following surgery or injury. It is characterized by increased pressure within a muscle compartment that can lead to decreased blood flow and nerve damage.
Pain relieved by narcotics and capillary refill of 1 second are not manifestations of compartment syndrome. Pain relieved by narcotics is a normal response to pain medication. A capillary refill of 1 second is within the normal range and does not indicate compartment syndrome.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","D","E"]
Explanation
These are the correct interventions that the nurse should take. Applying a compression bandage to the client's ankle can help reduce swelling and provide support to the injured area. Elevating the client's foot can also help reduce swelling by promoting venous return. Checking the client's toes for color, temperature, and sensation is important to assess for any potential nerve or vascular damage.
Applying heat to the client's ankle is not recommended as it can increase swelling and inflammation. Encouraging range of motion of the client's foot is also not recommended as it can cause further injury to the affected area.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Checking capillary refill in the affected extremity every 4 hr is an important intervention for a nurse to include in the plan of care for an older adult client who is 4 hr postoperative following an open reduction and internal fixation of a fractured femur. This helps to monitor the blood flow to the affected extremity and ensure that it is adequate.
a. Maintaining the client on bed rest for 72 hr after surgery is not necessarily required for a patient who has undergone an open reduction and internal fixation of a fractured femur. The patient's mobility should be determined by their individual needs and the surgeon's instructions.
c. Restricting oral fluid intake to 1,000 ml per day is not necessary for a patient who has undergone an open reduction and internal fixation of a fractured femur. The patient's fluid intake should be determined by their individual needs and any medical conditions they may have.
d. Removing antiembolic stockings once each day to examine skin integrity is not necessarily required for a patient who has undergone an open reduction and internal fixation of a fractured femur. The use of antiembolic stockings and their removal should be determined by the patient's individual needs and the surgeon's instructions.
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