Nursing Process Final Exam Questions Related

Review Nursing Process Final Exam Questions related questions and content

Which assessment finding would prompt the Rn to suspect compartment syndrome in a patient with a long leg cast?

  • A. weak movement of the patient’s toes
  • B. decreased pedal pulses
  • C. severe, unrelieved pain
  • D. presence of foot pallor
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: severe, unrelieved pain. Compartment syndrome is characterized by increased pressure within a muscle compartment leading to decreased blood flow and tissue damage. Severe, unrelieved pain is a hallmark sign as the pressure builds up. Weak movement of the patient's toes (choice A) could indicate nerve damage but is not specific to compartment syndrome. Decreased pedal pulses (choice B) could suggest vascular compromise but are not specific to compartment syndrome. Presence of foot pallor (choice D) could indicate poor circulation but is not a definitive sign of compartment syndrome.