A patient with open,comminuted fractures of the tibia and fibula is treated with open reduction and application of an external fixator.The day following surgery,the patient complains of severe pain in her affected leg,which is unrelieved by ordered analgesics.The patient's toes are pink,but she says they are numb and tingling.What is the most appropriate nursing action?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Severe pain and numbness or tingling in the affected extremity could indicate a complication such as compartment syndrome, which is a medical emergency. The physician must be notified immediately to assess and treat the patient. Checking the patient's temperature, loosening the screws on the fixator pins, and applying ice may not address the underlying issue and could potentially cause harm.

A Patient with Open,comminuted Fractures of the Tibia and Fibula