Author Question: The nurse is concerned that patients on an orthopedic care area are at risk for compartment ... (Read 67 times)

bio_gurl · **on:** Jun 25, 2018

The nurse is concerned that patients on an orthopedic care area are at risk for compartment syndrome. In which circumstances should the nurse assess for manifestations of compartment syndrome?

Select all that apply.
1. fasciotomy
2. cast applied to a limb
3. crush injury to a limb
4. fat embolism
5. total hip replacement surgery

Question 2

Following trauma to the musculoskeletal or nervous system, complex regional pain syndrome may develop. The nurse would recognize this complication when what is assessed?

1. The patient complains of persistent pain, swelling, and decreased motion.
2. The patient's bone has not healed within the expected time period.
3. The patient complains of leg swelling, pain, tenderness, and cramping.
4. The patient complains of numbness beyond a cast, and toes are pale, with delayed capillary refill.

mrphibs · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 25, 2018

Answer to Question 1

Correct Answer: 2, 3

External compression of a limb by a cast that constricts the limb can lead to compartment syndrome. Acute compartment syndrome may result from hemorrhage and edema within the compartment after a fracture, crush injury, or surgery. Fasciotomy is a treatment that can be used in the management of compartment syndrome. Fat embolism is a complication associated with long bone fractures or crushing injuries. Compartment syndrome does not typically occur after hip replacement surgery.

Answer to Question 2

Correct Answer: 1

Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is characterized by intense pain in the affected limb, as well as sensory, autonomic, motor, skin, and bone changes of the extremity. The failure of a fracture to heal within the usual time period is characteristic of nonunion or delayed union. Leg swelling, pain, tenderness, and cramping are symptoms of deep vein thrombosis. Numbness beyond a cast and toes that are pale with delayed capillary refill are symptoms of possible compartment syndrome.