what are the signs of compartment syndrome

ATI RN

ATI Capstone Medical Surgical Assessment 1 Quizlet

1. What are the signs of compartment syndrome?

A. Unrelieved pain, pallor, pulselessness
B. Muscle weakness, hyporeflexia
C. Pins-and-needles sensation, swelling
D. Severe swelling and tightness in the affected extremity

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct signs of compartment syndrome include unrelieved pain, pallor, and pulselessness due to increased pressure within a muscle compartment. Choice B, muscle weakness, and hyporeflexia are not typical signs of compartment syndrome. Choice C, pins-and-needles sensation and swelling, are not specific signs of compartment syndrome. Choice D, severe swelling and tightness in the affected extremity, could be seen in compartment syndrome but are not the primary signs.

2. A client scheduled for electromyography (EMG) will have small needle electrodes inserted into the muscles. What should the nurse include in the teaching?

A. You will receive a fixed dose of radioisotope 2 hours before the procedure.
B. Momentary flushing will occur at the beginning of the procedure.
C. You should inform your provider if you are claustrophobic.
D. You should expect insertion of small needle electrodes into the muscles.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. During an electromyography (EMG) procedure, small needle electrodes are inserted into the muscles to assess muscle weakness and nerve responses. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because radioisotope is not used in EMG, flushing is not a typical occurrence, and claustrophobia is more relevant for imaging procedures like MRI or CT scans, not EMG.

3. What teaching should be provided to a patient following cataract surgery?

A. Avoid NSAIDs
B. Wear dark glasses outdoors
C. Creamy white drainage is normal
D. Avoid alcohol

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct teaching to provide to a patient following cataract surgery is to avoid NSAIDs. NSAIDs should be avoided post-cataract surgery to reduce the risk of bleeding. Choice B, wearing dark glasses outdoors, is important to protect the eyes from bright light but is not directly related to medication use. Choice C, stating that creamy white drainage is normal, is incorrect as drainage should be monitored for excessive redness, swelling, or pain. Choice D, avoiding alcohol, is not a direct post-cataract surgery teaching point related to medication use.

4. What is the first action when continuous bubbling is observed in the chest tube water seal chamber?

A. Tighten the connections of the chest tube system
B. Clamp the chest tube
C. Replace the chest tube system
D. Continue monitoring the chest tube

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When continuous bubbling is observed in the chest tube water seal chamber, the first action should be to tighten the connections of the chest tube system. This step is crucial as it can often resolve an air leak causing continuous bubbling. Clamping the chest tube or replacing the chest tube system would not address the underlying issue of loose connections and may not be necessary. Continuing to monitor the chest tube without taking corrective action may lead to complications if the air leak is not addressed promptly.

5. A nurse is teaching a client who has type 1 DM about hypoglycemia. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

A. Exercise reduces the risk for hypoglycemia.
B. I can skip my insulin when I don't eat.
C. I can drink 4 oz of soda if my blood sugar is low.
D. Diabetic pills don't cause hypoglycemia; only insulin does.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The client can correct any development of hypoglycemia with a quick intake of glucose. The client should have 15 g carbohydrates on hand to treat hypoglycemic episodes, like 4 oz of regular soda.