If surgery is needed, which procedure would the nurse first prepare the patient for to treat compartment syndrome?

Choice A reason: Tennis involves high-impact movements, twisting, and sudden directional changes, which stress the lumbar spine and exacerbate low back pain. These actions increase pressure on intervertebral discs and strain paraspinal muscles, risking further injury. For clients with back pain, low-impact exercises are preferred to avoid aggravating the condition.

Choice B reason: Swimming is a low-impact aerobic exercise that strengthens core and back muscles without stressing the spine. Buoyancy in water reduces gravitational load on vertebrae, minimizing disc compression. Freestyle or backstroke promotes spinal alignment and flexibility, making it an ideal recommendation for managing low back pain safely and effectively.

Choice C reason: Rowing involves repetitive forward flexion and rotation, which can strain lumbar muscles and compress spinal discs, worsening low back pain. The seated position and pulling motion increase intradiscal pressure, risking injury. This high-intensity activity is not suitable for clients seeking back pain relief through exercise.

Choice D reason: Canoeing requires prolonged sitting and repetitive twisting, which stress the lower back. The forward paddling motion increases lumbar flexion, straining muscles and discs. This activity is not recommended, as it can exacerbate pain and lacks the supportive, low-impact qualities needed for safe back pain management.

Choice A reason: Fasciotomy is the primary surgical treatment for compartment syndrome, where increased intracompartmental pressure threatens muscle and nerve viability. Incising the fascia relieves pressure, restoring perfusion and preventing necrosis. Prompt preparation for fasciotomy is critical to salvage tissue, avoiding permanent damage or amputation in acute cases from trauma or fractures.

Choice B reason: Internal fixation, used for fracture stabilization, does not address compartment syndrome’s urgent pressure buildup. While fractures may contribute to the condition, fasciotomy is prioritized to relieve pressure. Expecting fixation misguides preparation, risking delayed decompression, which could lead to muscle necrosis, nerve damage, or limb loss.

Choice C reason: Tendon release is not a treatment for compartment syndrome, which involves fascial compartment pressure, not tendon pathology. Fasciotomy targets fascia to relieve pressure. Assuming tendon release misdirects surgical preparation, delaying critical intervention and increasing risks of irreversible tissue damage, chronic pain, or functional loss.

Choice D reason: Amputation is a last resort for compartment syndrome, used only if fasciotomy fails or necrosis is irreversible. Preparing for amputation first overlooks fasciotomy’s potential to save the limb. This assumption risks unnecessary limb loss, misaligning with urgent decompression to restore perfusion and preserve function in acute cases.