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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View Related questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Wearing braces or splints on both wrists at night helps to keep the wrists in a neutral position, preventing flexion that can worsen symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, particularly during sleep when the hands are more likely to be positioned in ways that exacerbate compression of the median nerve.
B. While notifying the healthcare provider is important if symptoms are severe, it is not the immediate teaching intervention the nurse should provide for symptom management.
C. Elevating the hands may help with swelling but is not the primary intervention for managing symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, especially pain and tingling.
D. Cold compresses may provide temporary relief but do not address the underlying issue of median nerve compression, which is better managed by using wrist braces.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. "Take the vital signs on all the patients in the lounge and tell me whether there are problems." This instruction is vague and lacks specific information about what "problems" to look for, which may lead to inconsistent reporting.
B. "Do the morning care first on the patients in 205 and 206 who can't get out of bed." This instruction is clear, but it does not specify important details like the specific type of care expected or additional needs.
C. "Give the patient in 204A a shower after breakfast, and call me to check her feet before you get her dressed." This instruction is specific, clear, and provides a follow-up action (check her feet) which is necessary. It allows the nursing assistant to understand exactly what to do and when.
D. "You take care of all the patients in 205 and 206. Let me know how you're doing and whether you need any help." This instruction lacks specificity and does not outline clear tasks or expectations, which may lead to confusion.