A patient has been casted to stabilize a fracture of the right ...

[itsmyluck]

A patient has been casted to stabilize a fracture of the right radius and ulna. The nurse assesses a capillary refill of 5 seconds and cold fingers of the right hand. Which initial intervention should the nurse deploy?
 
  a. Notify the charge nurse of a probable compartment syndrome
  b. Apply a warm compress to the fingers to relieve swelling
  c. Elevate the right hand to heart level to maintain arterial pressure
  d. Cut the cast off to release constriction

Question 2

A patient who has had a right below the knee amputation continues to complain of unpleasant sensation in the right foot. What can the nurse explain about this phantom pain?
 
  a. It only exists in the mind.
  b. It is a complication following an amputation and can be clarified by the surgeon.
  c. It is related to the severed nerves that are still sending messages to the brain.
  d. It occurs when the person becomes focused on the loss of the limb.

[Swizqar]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
The nurse should first elevate the right hand to heart level and notify the charge nurse. Permanent damage can occur in as little time as 6 hours.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
Phantom pain (pain felt in the missing extremity as if it were still present) may occur and be frightening to the patient. Phantom pain occurs because the nerve tracts that register pain in the amputated area continue to send a message to the brain (this is normal).