A nurse notes increasing edema in the calf of a client who has multiple fractures of the leg. The nurse should recognize that increasing edema is a manifestation of which of the following complications?
Malignant hypothermia
Pulmonary embolism
Acute compartment syndrome
Fat embolism syndrome
The Correct Answer is C
A. Malignant hypothermia: This is a rare but life-threatening reaction to certain medications used during anesthesia. It doesn't typically manifest with calf edema.
B. Pulmonary embolism: While pulmonary embolism can occur as a complication in some cases, it is characterized by symptoms like sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, and may not directly cause calf edema.
C. Acute compartment syndrome
Increasing edema in the calf of a client with multiple fractures of the leg is a manifestation of acute compartment syndrome. Acute compartment syndrome occurs when there is increased pressure within a muscle compartment, which can lead to reduced blood flow, nerve damage, and tissue hypoxia. The edema and increased pressure can compress blood vessels, nerves, and muscle tissue within the compartment, resulting in symptoms such as severe pain, edema, and potential vascular compromise.
D. Fat embolism syndrome: This syndrome can occur in clients with long bone fractures, but it is characterized by respiratory and neurologic symptoms, not isolated calf edema.

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Chronic pain - Chronic pain is a concern for the client, but addressing the underlying issue of ineffective tissue perfusion will help alleviate pain by promoting healing and reducing tissue damage.
B. Impaired skin integrity - Impaired skin integrity is a result of ineffective tissue perfusion. By addressing perfusion issues, skin integrity can be improved as tissues receive adequate oxygen and nutrients for healing.
C. Risk for injury - While clients with arterial insufficiency ulcers are at risk for injury, the immediate concern is addressing the ineffective tissue perfusion to prevent complications related to poor circulation, such as tissue necrosis and infection.
D. Ineffective tissue perfusion- Arterial insufficiency ulcers are caused by inadequate blood flow to the tissues. The priority issue for a client with an arterial insufficiency ulcer is ineffective tissue perfusion. Due to decreased blood flow, tissues do not receive enough oxygen and nutrients, leading to delayed wound healing, tissue damage, and potential complications. Interventions should focus on improving circulation, promoting vasodilation, and enhancing perfusion to facilitate wound healing and prevent further tissue damage.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Provide the client with antipyretic therapy. - Antipyretic therapy can help reduce fever, but addressing the underlying infection with antibiotics is crucial.
B. Administer antibiotics to the client. -The priority intervention for a client with acute osteomyelitis is to administer antibiotics promptly. Osteomyelitis is a severe bacterial infection of the bone, which requires aggressive antibiotic therapy to eradicate the infection. Delaying antibiotic treatment can lead to further complications and the spread of the infection.
C. Teach relaxation breathing to reduce the client's pain. - Pain management is important, but in the case of acute osteomyelitis, the priority is to eliminate the infection through antibiotics.
D. Increase the client's protein intake. - Adequate nutrition, including protein, is important for overall healing and immune function, but it is not the priority when dealing with an acute infection that requires immediate antibiotic treatment.

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