A 4-year-old child with a long leg cast complains of "fire" in his cast.Which action by the nurse is most appropriate?
A) Notify the provider on his or her next rounds.
B) Note the complaint in the nurse's notes.
C) Notify the provider immediately.
D) Report the complaint to the next nurse on duty.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A burning sensation under the cast is an indication of tissue ischemia.It may be an early indication of serious neurovascular compromise,such as compartment syndrome,that requires immediate attention.The child's symptom requires immediate attention.Notifying the physician on the next rounds is inappropriate.Charting the complaint in the nurse's notes is an appropriate action but not the priority.The priority action is to contact the provider.Communication across shifts is important to the continuing assessment of the child; however,this symptom requires immediate evaluation,and the provider should be contacted.

A 4-Year-Old Child with a Long Leg Cast Complains of "Fire