Question

A patient with orthopedic trauma complains of severe unrelenting pain in the affected extremity not relieved by analgesics. What is the nurse most concerned about?

A) Infection
B) Compartment syndrome
C) Fracture displacement
D) Nerve damage

Answer 1

The nurse is most concerned about compartment syndrome, a condition where increased pressure within muscle compartments can lead to severe complications and requires immediate treatment.

Step-by-step explanation:

A patient experiencing severe unrelenting pain in an affected extremity that is not relieved by analgesics could be exhibiting signs of compartment syndrome. This condition arises when there is increased pressure within the muscle compartments, which can impair blood flow and cause tissue damage. The nurse would be most concerned about compartment syndrome because it is a surgical emergency that, if left untreated, can lead to permanent muscle and nerve damage, and potentially, limb amputation.