Final answer:
A nurse should monitor for signs of compartment syndrome in a patient with a distal radius fracture. If the fracture involves the joint surface, it can affect wrist joint stability and mobility. Surgery may be required if the fracture is unstable or involves the joint surface.
Step-by-step explanation:
When caring for a client with a distal radius fracture and a short arm cast, a nurse should monitor for signs of compartment syndrome, which can be a serious complication. Compartment syndrome occurs when there is increased pressure within the muscles, which can lead to muscle and nerve damage and problems with blood flow. If the fracture involves the joint surface of the radiocarpal joint, it could lead to issues with wrist joint stability and mobility, potentially resulting in a decreased range of motion, pain, and long-term functional impairments.
In the case of a Colles fracture, which is a break of the distal radius caused by falling onto an outstretched hand, surgery may be required if the fracture is unstable or displaced, or if it involves the joint surface and cannot be properly realigned through closed reduction. Surgical repair typically involves the use of metallic hardware such as pins, screws, plates, or external fixation to stabilize the bones while they heal.