Question

A teenager who had a cast applied after a tibia fracture complains that his pain medication is not working and his pain is still a 9 or 10. The nurse notices some edema of the toes and a capillary refill of 6 seconds. The priority action of the nurse would be:

1.) call the health care provider immediately
2.) check if there is an order for a stronger pain medication
3.) try nonpharmacological techniques of pain relief
4.) explain to the teen that a new fracture is expected to be painful the first day

Answer 1

The priority action of the nurse would be to call the health care provider immediately as a capillary refill of 6 seconds indicates poor circulation and may be a sign of compartment syndrome.

Step-by-step explanation:

The priority action of the nurse would be to call the health care provider immediately. A capillary refill of 6 seconds indicates poor circulation, which may be a sign of compartment syndrome. Compartment syndrome is a serious condition that occurs when increased pressure within a muscle compartment impairs blood flow and can be limb-threatening. It requires immediate medical intervention to prevent further complications.