What nursing intervention is essential for the prevention of compartment syndrome in a patient with a fracture?
Administering analgesics for pain relief
Elevating the affected limb above the heart
Applying ice packs to the fracture site
Regularly monitoring neurovascular status
The Correct Answer is D
Regularly monitoring neurovascular status, including assessing pulses, capillary refill, sensation, and motor function, is essential for early detection of compartment syndrome, which can occur after a fracture. Compartment syndrome is a serious condition where increased pressure within the muscle compartment can compromise blood flow and nerve function.
a. Administering analgesics for pain relief is important, but it does not directly prevent compartment syndrome.
b. Elevating the affected limb above the heart can help reduce swelling but does not specifically prevent compartment syndrome.
c. Applying ice packs to the fracture site can help reduce pain and swelling but is not a preventive measure for compartment syndrome.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by weakened and porous bones, leading to an increased risk of fractures, especially in the hip, spine, and wrist.
a. Arthritis: Arthritis is a condition that involves joint inflammation and may cause joint pain and stiffness but does not directly weaken bones.
b. Osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that affects the cartilage and joints, but it does not specifically increase the risk of fractures.
c. Osteomyelitis: Osteomyelitis is a bone infection that can lead to bone destruction and inflammation but does not directly weaken bones to the same extent as osteoporosis.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Severe pain, pallor (pale skin color), and loss of pulses distal to the fracture are concerning signs of compartment syndrome, a serious complication that requires immediate medical intervention.
a. Bruising and discoloration at the fracture site: Bruising and discoloration are common signs of inflammation and injury at the fracture site but are not specific to compartment syndrome.
b. Mild pain and swelling in the affected limb: Mild pain and swelling are expected with a fracture but do not raise immediate concerns for compartment syndrome.
c. Prolonged capillary refill distal to the fracture: Prolonged capillary refill time may indicate reduced blood flow but is not as concerning as the combination of severe pain, pallor, and loss of pulses seen in compartment syndrome.
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