Question

A nurse is assessing a client who has an external fixator to the right lower arm following musculoskeletal trauma. Which of the following findings should indicate to the nurse that the client has developed compartment syndrome?

-Serous drainage is present on the pin site dressings
-Flushing of the skin on the right arm
-Bounding pulse palpated in the radial artery
-Numbness to the fingers on the right arm

Answer 1

Compartment syndrome can be indicated by numbness in the fingers, flushing of the skin, and a bounding pulse in the radial artery.

Step-by-step explanation:

Compartment syndrome is a serious condition that occurs when pressure builds up inside a muscle compartment, restricting blood flow. In the case of a client with an external fixator to the right lower arm, there are a few findings that can indicate the development of compartment syndrome:

1. Numbness to the fingers on the right arm: This can be a sign of nerve compression due to increased pressure in the compartment.
2. Flushing of the skin on the right arm: This can be a sign of compromised blood flow, caused by the pressure.
3. Bounding pulse palpated in the radial artery: A bounding pulse can indicate increased blood flow to compensate for reduced blood flow in the compartment.

Serous drainage on the pin site dressings is not specific to compartment syndrome and may be due to other factors. However, if any of these findings are present, it is important for the nurse to notify the healthcare provider immediately for further evaluation and intervention.