Which clinical manifestation is most concerning in a patient with a fracture?
Swelling and bruising at the fracture site
Numbness and tingling distal to the fracture
Mild localized pain with movement
Warmth and redness at the fracture site
The Correct Answer is B
Numbness and tingling distal to the fracture, along with loss of pulses or capillary refill, may indicate compromised blood flow or nerve injury. It is a concerning sign that requires immediate medical attention.
a. Swelling and bruising at the fracture site: Swelling and bruising are common signs of inflammation and injury at the fracture site, but they are not as concerning as neurovascular compromise.
c. Mild localized pain with movement: Mild localized pain with movement is expected with a fracture, and it does not raise immediate concerns.
d. Warmth and redness at the fracture site: Warmth and redness are signs of inflammation and increased blood flow to the injured area, which is normal during the healing process.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Infection is a complication of fractures that can occur when bacteria enter the body through an open wound or during surgery. It presents with pain, warmth, redness, and swelling at the site.
b. Compartment syndrome: Compartment syndrome is characterized by severe pain, pallor, and loss of pulses distal to the fracture site, not warmth and redness.
c. Delayed union: Delayed union refers to a fracture that takes longer than usual to heal, and it does not typically present with warmth and redness.
d. Osteomyelitis: Osteomyelitis is a bone infection that can develop as a complication of fractures, but it does not typically present with warmth and redness at the site.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
In a patient with an open fracture (compound fracture), there is a risk of infection due to the exposure of the bone to the external environment. The nurse should assess for signs of infection, such as redness, warmth, swelling, drainage, and increased pain at the fracture site.
a. Assessing joint range of motion is important, but it is not the priority in a patient with an open fracture, where preventing infection is the main concern.
b. Assessing neurological function in the unaffected limb is not directly related to the open fracture and may not be the priority at this time.
d. Assessing the quality of pain experienced by the patient is important for pain management but is not the priority over assessing for signs of infection in an open fracture.
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