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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
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. Provide an elevated toilet seat: This is important for preventing hip dislocation but is not the immediate priority.
B. Assist out of bed immediately following surgery: Mobilizing the patient is important to prevent complications such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pneumonia, but this should be done safely and as prescribed.
C. Medicate with pain medications: Pain management is crucial for postoperative recovery but is part of comprehensive care rather than the single priority.
D. Maintain weight bearing as prescribed: Following weight-bearing restrictions is critical to ensure proper healing and prevent complications such as dislocation or prosthetic failure. This is the immediate priority in terms of preventing harm and ensuring recovery.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.