Question

A nurse is caring for a toddler who sustained a left lower leg fracture in a motor vehicle crash. The toddler, who has light-pigmented skin, received a cast 24 hours ago. Which of the following assessment findings from the casted leg should the nurse report to the provider?A: The toddler's toes are pink in color.

B: The toddler's foot swells when dependent.
C: The toddler's toe movement is limited.
D: The toddler's capillary refill time is less than 2 seconds.

Answer 1

The nurse should report to the provider if the toddler's foot swells when dependent, as this could indicate a serious condition known as compartment syndrome. Pink toes and a capillary refill time of less than 2 seconds are generally positive signs.

Step-by-step explanation:

Among the assessment findings from the casted leg of a toddler who sustained a left lower leg fracture, the nurse should be concerned about and report to the provider if the toddler's foot swells when dependent. This could indicate a condition known as compartment syndrome, which is a medical emergency requiring immediate attention. Compartment syndrome occurs when pressure within the muscles builds to dangerous levels, decreasing blood flow and potentially causing muscle and nerve damage. Swelling might prevent adequate blood circulation to the toes and could lead to serious complications.

On the other hand, the findings that the toddler's toes are pink in color and that capillary refill time is less than 2 seconds are generally positive signs, indicating good blood flow to the affected area. Limited toe movement (limited toe movement) could be a concern as well, depending on the severity and the comparison to the baseline movement. However, it could also be temporarily affected by the recent trauma or cast application.