After falling down the basement steps, a client is brought to the emergency room. The x-ray confirms the client's right leg is fractured. Following the application of a leg cast, which assessment finding warrants immediate intervention by the nurse?
Reports throbbing right leg pain.
Circumferential edema of right foot.
Increased temperature to lower extremity.
Right foot pale with sluggish capillary refill.
The Correct Answer is D
A. Throbbing pain can be a common response after a fracture and cast application but does not necessarily indicate an emergency situation.
B. Circumferential edema could suggest complications, but it is not as immediately concerning as the vascular status of the limb.
C. An increased temperature in the lower extremity could indicate inflammation or infection, but it does not require immediate intervention compared to signs of impaired circulation.
D. A pale foot with sluggish capillary refill suggests compromised blood flow, which is a medical emergency requiring immediate assessment and intervention to prevent ischemia or compartment syndrome.
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Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Obtaining a sample of the drainage is not an immediate priority after evisceration; the patient's safety and stabilization come first.
B. Auscultating the abdomen for bowel sounds is important but secondary to addressing the immediate crisis of evisceration.
C. Preparing the client to return to the operating room is the priority action because evisceration indicates a surgical emergency that requires prompt intervention to repair the abdominal wall and prevent complications.
D. While additional sterile dressing supplies may be needed, addressing the evisceration takes precedence to prevent further injury and manage the patient’s condition.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Does not include humor.
Humor can be an appropriate part of the nurse-patient relationship when used sensitively to ease tension or build rapport.
B. Continues after discharge.
The therapeutic relationship typically ends upon discharge, respecting professional boundaries.
C. Focuses on the assessed patient health problems.
The nurse-patient relationship centers on addressing the patient’s identified health issues and providing support, making this option accurate.
D. Focuses on the nurse's ability to build rapport.
While rapport is important, the primary goal is to address the patient’s health needs, not just rapport-building alone.