A patient is in the ED after falling off a ladder. His ankle appears swollen, out of alignment, and is painful to touch. What will the nurse do first?

Splint and immobilize the extremity

Apply an ice pack to the ankle

Encourage weight bearing and ambulation

Assess pulse, color, temperature and capillary refill

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

A) Splint and immobilize the extremity: While immobilizing the injured extremity is important to prevent further injury, it should follow an initial assessment of blood flow and nerve function to ensure there are no vascular or neurological compromises.

B) Apply an ice pack to the ankle: Applying ice can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain. However, it is essential first to assess the circulation to the limb to ensure that applying ice will not worsen any underlying issues.

C) Encourage weight bearing and ambulation: Encouraging weight bearing on a potentially injured ankle can lead to further damage and is not appropriate. The priority is to assess the injury and understand its severity.

D) Assess pulse, color, temperature, and capillary refill: This step is crucial as it evaluates the vascular status of the limb. Assessing these factors helps identify any potential complications, such as compartment syndrome or inadequate blood flow, and guides further management of the injury.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A) The patient has asthma: While asthma can lead to respiratory symptoms and issues, it is not typically associated with clubbing of the fingernails. Asthma primarily affects airway constriction and inflammation, rather than causing the long-term changes in nail morphology seen with clubbing.

B) The patient has cardiovascular disease: Although some cardiovascular conditions can lead to clubbing, it is more commonly associated with chronic lung diseases. Cardiovascular disease might cause other signs or symptoms, but clubbing alone is not a definitive indicator of this condition.

C) The patient has emphysema: Emphysema, a type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), is characterized by the destruction of lung tissue and impaired airflow. While it can contribute to hypoxemia, clubbing is not a common finding specifically associated with emphysema.
D) The patient has chronic hypoxemia: Clubbing of the fingernails is a classic sign of chronic hypoxemia, often resulting from long-term respiratory conditions like COPD, interstitial lung disease, or lung cancer. It indicates a prolonged lack of oxygen in the blood, leading to changes in the nail bed and digit shape. Given the patient's long smoking history, chronic hypoxemia is the most likely explanation for this finding.

A. Low self-esteem B. His complaints of numbness in his hands C. Risk for injury D. Persistent pain

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A) Low self-esteem: While low self-esteem can develop as a result of limitations in physical abilities, it is not the most immediate concern in this scenario. Addressing the patient's functional capabilities and safety takes precedence.

B) His complaints of numbness in his hands: Numbness is a significant symptom of carpal tunnel syndrome, but the immediate priority is to ensure the patient can safely perform tasks. While it is important to address his symptoms, managing the risk associated with his condition is more critical.

C) Risk for injury: This is the most pressing concern for the patient. Given his difficulty holding tools, there is a heightened risk of accidents or injuries while working. Prioritizing safety measures is essential to prevent harm and ensure he can continue his work safely.

D) Persistent pain: While pain management is important, the focus should be on the immediate risk of injury related to the patient's inability to hold tools securely. Addressing safety concerns takes precedence over managing pain at this point.

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A patient is in the ED after falling off a ladder. His ankle appears swollen, out of alignment, and is painful to touch. What will the nurse do first?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

The nurse is performing an integumentary system assessment of a patient who has smoked for the last 40 years. The patient has clubbing of the fingernails. What does this finding indicate to the nurse?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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