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?

A) Serous drainage is present on the pin site dressings
B) Flushing of the skin on the right arm
C) Bounding pulse palpated in the radial artery
D) Numbness to the fingers on the right arm

Answer 1

Numbness to the fingers on the right arm is a key finding indicating that the client has developed compartment syndrome.

Step-by-step explanation:

Compartment syndrome occurs when the pressure within a muscle compartment increases and compromises blood circulation to the muscles and nerves. In the case of a client with an external fixator to the right lower arm, the nurse should look for signs and symptoms of compartment syndrome. Numbness to the fingers on the right arm would be a key finding indicating that the client has developed compartment syndrome. Other possible signs and symptoms of compartment syndrome include severe pain, swelling, tightness or hardness of the affected area, and pale or blue skin. It is important for the nurse to recognize these signs and symptoms promptly and notify the healthcare provider for immediate intervention.