Exhibits

After the obstetrician leaves, the client appears confused and asks the nurse, "How will I know if I have high blood sugar?"
Which are the nurse's best responses? Select all that apply.

A. Demonstrate to the PN how to position the client more effectively for the procedure:
The correct position for a sigmoidoscopy is the left lateral or Sims' position to allow easier access to the sigmoid colon. Demonstrating the correct position supports patient safety and provides teaching for the PN.

B. Arrange for unlicensed assistive personnel to assist the PN during the procedure: Assistance is not the issue in this scenario; the problem lies in incorrect positioning. Assigning additional help does not address the need to correct the client's position.

C. Acknowledge that the PN has positioned the client safely and correctly: The flat prone position is not appropriate for a sigmoidoscopy. Acknowledging incorrect positioning would be unsafe and potentially delay the procedure or increase the risk of injury.

D. Assume care of the client and assign the PN to the care of a different client: This is an excessive response that undermines the PN’s role. The more constructive approach is to guide and support the PN through demonstration rather than reassignment.

Rationale:

• Pain: The client is reporting intense pain (10 on a 0 to 10 scale) in his left arm, and he is unable to move it. This suggests a possible fracture or significant soft tissue injury. Managing this pain is the priority to ensure the client’s comfort and prevent further complications.
• Compartment syndrome: Given the swelling, bruising, and coolness to the touch in the left arm, compartment syndrome is a serious risk. This occurs when swelling or bleeding in a muscle compartment increases pressure, potentially compromising blood flow to muscles and nerves. Immediate interventions are required to prevent tissue damage.

Rationale for Incorrect Options:

• Swelling: While swelling is present, it is a natural part of the healing process and not the primary concern in this case. The risk of compartment syndrome is much more urgent than managing swelling.
• Mobility: The client’s mobility is impaired due to pain, but pain management must be prioritized before focusing on restoring mobility. Only once pain is controlled should mobility be addressed.
• Fat embolism syndrome: Although fat embolism syndrome is a risk in traumatic fractures, especially with long bone injuries, the symptoms of this client (swelling, bruising, cool arm) point more directly to the risk of compartment syndrome rather than fat embolism syndrome.
• Venous thromboembolism (VTE): VTE is a concern in immobilized patients, but in the acute phase, compartment syndrome poses a more immediate threat. The priority is to manage the current trauma and risk for compartment syndrome before considering VTE prevention.