A nurse is doing her assessment on a client who suffered a crush injury with multiple fractures to his lower leg. The nurse notices the client has increasing edema to the affected leg since the last assessment. Also, the client also reports the last pain medication did not help them at all with their pain and they feel the pain is worsening. The increasing edema and unrelieved increasing pain are indications of which of the following complications from a crush injury?
Fat embolism syndrome
Malignant hyperthermia
Acute compartment syndrome
Myocardial embolus
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason:
Fat embolism syndrome is a serious complication of fractures, particularly long bone fractures, and presents with symptoms such as respiratory distress, cerebral dysfunction, and petechial rash. However, it is not characterized by localized increasing edema and pain.
Choice B reason:
Malignant hyperthermia is a severe reaction to certain anesthetic agents and is characterized by hyperthermia, muscle rigidity, and metabolic acidosis. It is not related to increasing edema and pain in the context of a crush injury.
Choice C reason:
Acute compartment syndrome is characterized by increasing pain that is not relieved by analgesics and increasing edema due to increased pressure within the muscle compartments. This condition requires immediate medical intervention to prevent permanent damage.
Choice D reason:
A myocardial embolus would present with symptoms related to cardiac function, such as chest pain and shortness of breath. It is not related to localized increasing edema and pain in the lower extremities following a crush injury.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is the correct answer. Administering diazepam via intravenous push is the first-line treatment for status epilepticus to quickly control and terminate the seizure activity. Rapid intervention is crucial to prevent prolonged seizures and potential complications.
Choice B reason: Preparing to administer a glucocorticoid orally is not the immediate first step in managing status epilepticus. Glucocorticoids may be used in specific cases, but the priority is to stop the seizure with fast-acting medications like diazepam.
Choice C reason: Monitoring the client's cardiac rhythm via telemetry is important, especially given the potential cardiovascular effects of seizures and medications. However, it is not the immediate first action. Controlling the seizure takes precedence.
Choice D reason: Assessing the client's neurological status every hour is part of ongoing care, but it is not the first intervention. The immediate goal is to terminate the seizure activity to prevent further neurological damage.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Checking the dosage with a more experienced nurse might provide additional input, but it does not address the fundamental issue of the illegible order. Clarity from the prescribing provider is necessary to ensure accuracy.
Choice B reason: Consulting a drug handbook to determine the normal dose can provide useful information but does not solve the problem of confirming the specific dosage intended by the provider. Administering the dose without proper clarification risks patient safety.
Choice C reason: Contacting the hospital pharmacist for input is a prudent step, but the final clarification must come from the prescribing provider to ensure the correct dosage and adherence to the intended treatment plan.
Choice D reason: This is the correct answer. Contacting the health care provider to clarify the illegible order is the most direct and reliable way to ensure that the patient receives the correct dosage of medication. Clear communication with the provider prevents medication errors and ensures patient safety.
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