A patient has had a cast placed for the treatment of a humeral fracture. The nurses most recent assessment shows signs and symptoms of compartment syndrome. What is the nurses most appropriate action?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This major neurovascular problem is caused by pressure within a muscle compartment that increases to such an extent that microcirculation diminishes, leading to nerve and muscle anoxia and necrosis.
Function can be permanently lost if the anoxic situation continues for longer than 6 hours. Therefore, immediate medical care is a priority over further nursing assessment. Assessment of calcium levels is unnecessary.

A Patient Has Had a Cast Placed for the Treatment