A nurse is monitoring a client who has a cast on her right ankle following an open reduction and internal fixation procedure. The nurse should monitor for which of the following findings to identify compartment syndrome?
Pain unrelieved by routine medications
Elevated WBC count
Swelling and redness of the right leg
Decreased oxygen saturation
The Correct Answer is A
A. Pain unrelieved by routine medications: Pain unrelieved by medication is a hallmark sign of compartment syndrome, a serious condition that requires immediate intervention.
B. Elevated WBC count: An elevated WBC count indicates infection but is not a specific sign of compartment syndrome.
C. Swelling and redness of the right leg: While swelling and redness can be present, they are not specific to compartment syndrome and can occur in many other conditions.
D. Decreased oxygen saturation: Decreased oxygen saturation is more commonly associated with respiratory or cardiac issues and is not specific to compartment syndrome.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. A fracture in which the bone is completely broken into two or more pieces. This describes a complete fracture but does not necessarily imply displacement.
B. A fracture in which the bone breaks through the skin. This describes an open or compound fracture, not specifically a displaced fracture.
C. A fracture in which the broken ends of the bone are out of alignment. This is the correct definition of a displaced fracture. The bone ends are misaligned and require reduction to align properly.
D. A fracture in which the bone is partially cracked but still intact. This describes a partial or incomplete fracture, such as a greenstick fracture, not a displaced fracture.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Increased red blood cell count: An increased red blood cell count is not an immediate concern in the context of a fracture.
B. Decreased lymphocyte count: A decreased lymphocyte count could indicate an infection or immune issue but is not the immediate priority in a fracture situation.
C. Decreased body temperature: Hypothermia can be concerning, but in the context of a fracture, it is not as critical as neurovascular compromise.
D. Absent left pedal pulse: An absent pedal pulse indicates a possible compromised circulation to the lower extremity, which is a critical and immediate concern. It could signify a compartment syndrome or arterial damage requiring urgent intervention.
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