A cast has just been applied to a client's left forearm, and...

A cast has just been applied to a client's left forearm, and he has 10 lbs of Russell's traction on his left leg. Which of the following nursing concerns takes priority in the care of this client?

A. The casted extremity may swell, and the cast will become a tourniquet.
B. Heat conduction from the wet cast can cause burning to the skin below.
C. Muscle atrophy of the areas involved can lead to decreased muscle tone.
D. Skin irritation from the cast edges can cause abrasions.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Swelling in a newly casted extremity can cause the cast to act as a tourniquet, compromising circulation, which is the priority concern. Heat from a wet cast does not burn skin, muscle atrophy is a long-term issue, and skin irritation is less urgent.

You may also like to solve these questions

The clinic nurse assesses a client with complaints of pain and numbness in the left hand and fingers. Which question should the nurse ask the client?

A. Do you smoke or use any type of tobacco products?'
B. Do you have to wear gloves when you are out in the cold?'
C. Do you do repetitive movements with your left fingers?'
D. Do you have tremors or involuntary movements of your hand?'

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Repetitive movements are a primary cause of carpal tunnel syndrome, causing pain and numbness. Smoking, cold sensitivity, and tremors are unrelated.

Which explanation most accurately explains to the client the primary purpose of the splints?

A. Splints are used to correct joint deformities.
B. Splints are used to slow joint deterioration.
C. Splints are used to improve hand strength.
D. Splints are used to increase range of motion.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Splints immobilize joints to reduce inflammation and slow deterioration.

The client is to be discharged after receiving treatment for right shoulder tendonitis. Which actions indicate to the nurse that the client is ready for discharge? Select all that apply.

A. Verbalizes about resuming normal activities within a day or two
B. Demonstrates proper use of an arm sling and the need to wear it during sleep
C. Verbalizes to keep the arm extended and flat on the mattress when lying in bed
D. Demonstrates how to properly apply the ice packs on the shoulder joint
E. States will take ibuprofen every four to six hours as needed for pain

Correct Answer: B,D,E

Rationale: B. An arm sling helps to rest the joint and keep it stabilized, especially during sleep. D. Ice application reduces joint inflammation and pain associated with tendonitis. E. NSAIDs such as ibuprofen (Motrin) are effective for controlling pain and reducing inflammation with tendonitis.

Which statement by the client diagnosed with a fractured ulna indicates to the nurse the client needs further teaching?

A. I need to eat a high-protein diet to ensure healing.'
B. I need to wiggle my fingers every hour to increase circulation.'
C. I need to take my pain medication before my pain is too bad.'
D. I need to keep this immobilizer on when lying down only.'

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Immobilizers must be worn continuously to stabilize a fractured ulna, not just when lying down. High-protein diet, finger movement, and proactive pain management are correct.

The nurse is caring for the client following a knee arthroscopy. What information should the nurse teach? Select all that apply.

A. Elevate the involved extremity on pillows for 24 to 48 hours.
B. Apply an ice pack continually to the involved joint for 24 hours.
C. Report severe joint pain immediately to the health care provider.
D. Resume usual activities to minimize joint stiffness and swelling.
E. Treat pain with a mild analgesic such as acetaminophen.

Correct Answer: A,C,E

Rationale: A. Elevation will help to decrease edema. C. Severe joint pain may indicate a possible complication and should be reported immediately. E. Usually a mild analgesic such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) is sufficient for pain control following a diagnostic arthroscopy.