A nurse is monitoring a client's lower extremity following the placement of a cast earlier in the day. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as manifestations of compartment syndrome? (Select all that apply.)
Pale-colored toes
Decreased skin turgor
Pain relieved by analgesia
Diminished capillary refill
Sensation of tingling
Correct Answer : A,D,E
A. Pale-colored toes are a sign of compromised circulation, which is a key manifestation of compartment syndrome. Decreased blood flow to the affected limb can cause pallor, which requires immediate intervention to prevent permanent damage.
B. Decreased skin turgor is incorrect. Skin turgor is an indicator of hydration status and is not directly related to compartment syndrome.
C. Pain relieved by analgesia is incorrect. One of the hallmark signs of compartment syndrome is severe pain that is not relieved by analgesia and worsens with passive movement.
D. Diminished capillary refill is correct. Delayed capillary refill (longer than 2 seconds) suggests poor perfusion, which can indicate increased pressure within the compartment.
E. Sensation of tingling is correct. Paresthesia (tingling or numbness) is an early sign of nerve compression due to swelling within the compartment. If untreated, this can progress to permanent nerve and muscle damage.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Holding the irrigation solution bottle 5 cm (2 in) above the sterile container is incorrect because the solution should be poured into a sterile container without contaminating the sterile field. The nurse should pour the solution from a height that avoids splashing and contamination.
B. Opening the outer wrapper of the sterile package toward her body is incorrect. The outer wrapper of a sterile package should be opened away from the body to avoid contamination of the sterile field.
C. Placing the irrigation solution bottle cap on the sterile field is incorrect. The cap should not be placed on the sterile field, as it may introduce contaminants.
D. Placing sterile objects at least 2.5 cm (1 in) from the edge of the sterile field is correct. This practice maintains the sterility of the field by preventing contamination from external sources.
Correct Answer is A,D,C,E,B
Explanation
- A. Obtain a baseline reading of the FHR and contraction pattern.
- Establishing a baseline of fetal heart rate (FHR) and contraction pattern is crucial to assess for any immediate changes following the amniotomy.
- D. Position the client with a rolled towel under her hips.
- Positioning the client with a rolled towel under her hips helps to relieve pressure on the vena cava, improve uterine blood flow, and optimize fetal positioning.
- C. Pass the sterile hook to the provider.
- The sterile hook is used to break the amniotic sac, and the nurse should pass it to the provider during the procedure.
- E. Check the fluid for color, odor, and consistency.
- After the amniotomy, the nurse should assess the amniotic fluid for color (should be clear), odor (should be odorless), and consistency to check for any signs of meconium or infection.
- B. Document the procedure in the electronic medical record.
- The nurse should document the amniotomy procedure and any findings (e.g., FHR changes, amniotic fluid assessment) in the medical record after the procedure has been completed.
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