A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of an adolescent who has diabetes mellitus. For which of the following values should the nurse notify the provider?

Choice A rationale:
Edema. Edema, the accumulation of fluid in the tissues, is not the primary indicator of compartment syndrome. While edema can occur due to various reasons, it's not specific to compartment syndrome. Compartment syndrome primarily involves increased pressure within a closed space (muscle compartment), which can compromise blood circulation and nerve function.
Choice B rationale:
Mottling. Mottling refers to a patchy, bluish discoloration of the skin that occurs due to poor blood circulation and is often seen in critically ill patients. While it might indicate circulatory issues, it's not a direct sign of compartment syndrome. Compartment syndrome is more closely associated with symptoms such as severe pain, numbness, and decreased or absent pulses.
Choice C rationale:
Urticaria. Urticaria, also known as hives, is a skin rash characterized by raised, itchy, and red or white welts. It is typically caused by an allergic reaction or other factors such as medications. Urticaria is unrelated to compartment syndrome, which involves the compression of nerves and blood vessels within a closed anatomical compartment, leading to ischemia and potential tissue damage.
Choice D rationale:
Pulselessness. Pulselessness is a critical sign that the nurse should monitor when conducting a circulatory check for compartment syndrome. Compartment syndrome occurs when there is increased pressure within a confined space (muscle compartment), leading to compromised blood flow and oxygen delivery to the tissues. The lack of a palpable pulse in the affected area suggests that blood flow is severely compromised. This is a late sign of compartment syndrome and requires immediate intervention to prevent tissue necrosis and long-term complications.

Choice A rationale:
Occupational therapy is the appropriate referral for an adolescent with rheumatoid arthritis who is having difficulty feeding themselves. Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disorder that can lead to joint inflammation and deformities. Occupational therapy focuses on helping individuals improve their ability to perform daily activities, which includes activities like feeding, dressing, and grooming. Occupational therapists work with patients to develop strategies and use adaptive equipment to make these tasks more manageable. In the case of an adolescent with rheumatoid arthritis, occupational therapy can provide techniques and tools to facilitate feeding independently despite joint limitations.
Choice B rationale:
Physical therapy primarily focuses on improving mobility, strength, and function in individuals with musculoskeletal issues. While physical therapy could be beneficial for an adolescent with rheumatoid arthritis to address joint mobility and muscle strength, it might not directly address the difficulty in feeding. Therefore, although physical therapy can be a helpful component of care for patients with rheumatoid arthritis, it might not be the first choice for addressing feeding difficulties.
Choice C rationale:
Speech therapy is not the most appropriate referral for an adolescent with rheumatoid arthritis experiencing feeding difficulties. Speech therapy primarily addresses communication and swallowing disorders. While swallowing difficulties might be relevant in some cases of rheumatoid arthritis due to potential joint involvement in the jaw, the primary focus should be on addressing joint limitations and adaptive techniques for feeding, making occupational therapy a more suitable referral.
Choice D rationale:
A case manager is not the recommended referral for an adolescent with rheumatoid arthritis and feeding difficulties. Case managers typically coordinate and facilitate various aspects of a patient's care, such as arranging appointments and services. While case managers play a valuable role in healthcare, the immediate concern of feeding difficulties in an adolescent with rheumatoid arthritis is best addressed through specialized interventions like occupational therapy.