A patient with a newly applied cast has increasing pain, numbness and tightness in the limb. Which nursing action is the priority?
Correct answer: C. Assess distal pulses, sensation and movement
- A. Elevate the limb high above the level of the heart
- B. Apply a heating pad over the casted area
- C. Assess distal pulses, sensation and movement
- D. Encourage the patient to sleep through the discomfort
Explanation
Distal pulses, sensation and movement help identify neurovascular compromise associated with compartment syndrome. Severe pain, paresthesia and increasing tightness are not ordinary postoperative swelling and must be reported promptly. Elevation may be prescribed for swelling, but assessment and urgent escalation come first.
Report an error
The more specific you are, the faster it gets fixed. A source beats an opinion.
Prefer email? support@testustad.com
About Orthopaedic Nursing
Covers fractures, dislocations, arthritis, osteoporosis, joint replacement, spinal disorders and complications of immobility. It includes neurovascular assessment, traction and cast care, mobility assistance, pain control, prevention of pressure injuries and deep vein thrombosis, and the difference between compartment syndrome and ordinary postoperative swelling.
Practise Orthopaedic Nursing
50 free Orthopaedic Nursing MCQs from Medical Surgical Nursing, each with the correct answer and an explanation. Unlimited attempts, no account needed.
Discussion
Stuck on an option, or know a faster way to get there? Ask or explain it here.
No comments yet. Be the first to explain this one.
Exams that ask Medical Surgical Nursing questions like this
Medical Surgical Nursing is on 8 papers prepared for on TestUstad, and all of them draw the same bank, so this question is worth knowing for every one of them.
More Orthopaedic Nursing questions
A patient with osteoporosis asks how to reduce the risk of future fractures. Which statement shows correct understanding?
Which nursing action is appropriate when applying a plaster cast to a patient's arm?
A nurse assesses a patient after spinal surgery. Which finding requires the most urgent action?
Which intervention best helps prevent pressure injuries in an immobile orthopedic patient?
A patient with a fractured femur suddenly develops shortness of breath, confusion and a fine petechial rash on the upper chest. Which action should the nurse take first?
Which finding most strongly suggests acute compartment syndrome rather than ordinary postoperative swelling?