A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client diagnosed with osteoarthritis who reports joint pain, swelling, and stiffness. Which of the following client statements indicates understanding of the teaching?

Compartment syndrome occurs when there is increased pressure within a closed muscle compartment, leading to reduced blood flow to the muscles and nerves in that compartment. In this case, the open fracture and subsequent reduction and stabilization procedure can cause swelling and increased pressure within the affected compartment. This can impede blood flow and potentially lead to tissue damage. Common symptoms include severe pain, swelling, numbness, and decreased or absent pulses. Immediate medical attention is necessary if compartment syndrome is suspected.

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) refers to the formation of blood clots within the deep veins, typically in the lower extremities. In the case of a client with an open fracture and immobilization with a splint, the risk of DVT increases due to factors such as reduced mobility, injury to blood vessels, and blood stasis. DVT can lead to serious complications if a clot dislodges and travels to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism. Symptoms of DVT may include pain, swelling, warmth, and redness in the affected limb.

While osteomyelitis and fat embolism syndrome can occur as complications of long bone fractures, they are not explicitly mentioned in the given scenario. Osteomyelitis refers to an infection in the bone, which can develop if bacteria enter an open fracture. Fat embolism syndrome can occur when fat globules from the bone marrow enter the bloodstream, usually following a long bone fracture.

A newly licensed nurse who is having difficulty finishing client care tasks during their shift should try to complete one task before moving on to the next. This can help the nurse stay focused and organized, and prevent them from becoming overwhelmed.

The other options are not recommended for time management.

a) Delegating complicated tasks to an RNmay not be appropriate or allowed, depending on the task and the nurse's scope of practice.

b) Documenting all client care at the end of the shiftcan lead to errors and omissions.

c) Performing quick tasks before time-consuming tasks may not be the most efficient use of time, as it can lead to unfinished tasks at the end of the shift.