The nurse is assigned to care for a child who is scheduled to ...

[BRWH]

The nurse is assigned to care for a child who is scheduled to have a plaster cast applied after reduction of a fracture of the radius. The nurse will prepare the child for cast application by explaining that:
 
  a. You will immediately begin to itch a lot, but don't scratch.
  b. The cast will be warm, and it will take a day or two to dry completely.
  c. The physician will be using a lot of strange tools to apply the cast.
  d. There is no need to be afraid.

Question 2

Which of the following is an early sign of compartment syndrome?
 
  a. a red streak in the forearm
  b. loss of sensation in the involved body part(s)
  c. swelling of one side of the body
  d. sudden inability of the medications to relieve pain

[Amiracle]

Answer to Question 1

B

Feedback
A Incorrect. Itching may occur but not immediately.
B Correct. The nurse will prepare the child for cast application by explaining that the cast will be warm, and it will take a day or two to dry completely. A chemical reaction between the casting material and the water will cause a feeling of warmth.
C Incorrect. The physician does not use a lot of strange tools to apply the cast. The only equipment needed includes a tubular gauze (stockinette), cotton padding material, and water.
D Incorrect. This is not an appropriate statement because the child probably is afraid, simply because of fear of the unknown.

Answer to Question 2

D

Feedback
A Incorrect. An early sign of compartment syndrome is not a red streak in the forearm.
B Incorrect. An early sign of compartment syndrome is not loss of sensation in the involved body part(s). However, numbness in the digits below the affected compartment is a sign of compartment syndrome.
C Incorrect. An early sign of compartment syndrome is not swelling of one side of the body; however, swelling is noted in the digits below the affected compartment.
D Correct. An early sign of compartment syndrome is severe, unrelenting pain distal to the injury that is unrelieved by pain medications.