Compartment syndrome is the complication of - - RUHS, Jaipur, PB B.Sc Nursing Entrance-2022

RUHS, Jaipur, PB B.Sc Nursing Entrance-2022

Medical & Surgical Nursing

Easy

Appeared in: RUHS, Jaipur, PB B.Sc Nursing Entrance-2022

Explanation

Compartment syndrome is a condition of increased pressure within a confined fascial space, which compromises blood flow and nerve function.
It is most commonly caused by trauma, particularly fractures of long bones (e.g., tibia, forearm), due to the resulting swelling and bleeding.
External compression from a tight cast or splint applied to treat a fracture is another significant cause.
The earliest and most reliable indicator is severe pain that is out of proportion to the injury and unrelieved by analgesics.

Option B: Glaucoma involves increased pressure within the eye (intraocular pressure), which affects the optic nerve. It does not relate to the musculoskeletal compartments of the limbs.
Option C: Appendicitis is the inflammation of the appendix. Its primary complications are rupture, abscess formation, and peritonitis, which are abdominal issues.
Option D: Liver cirrhosis is chronic scarring of the liver. While severe ascites in cirrhosis can lead to abdominal compartment syndrome, it is not a cause of acute limb compartment syndrome, which is typically associated with trauma.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: Knowing Complications of fractures, specifically compartment syndrome helps nurses interpret findings accurately and avoid errors in routine assessment, medication administration, and patient teaching.
Early recognition of compartment syndrome is critical as it is a surgical emergency. Delays in treatment can lead to permanent muscle and nerve damage, limb loss, or even death.
Nurses play a vital role in early detection through frequent and accurate neurovascular assessments (checking the 6 P's) on any patient with a fracture or a new cast.
What if? If a patient with a new tibia fracture cast reports 10/10 pain an hour after receiving IV morphine, the nurse's priority is not to administer more pain medication but to immediately notify the healthcare provider of suspected compartment syndrome.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key concept in the question stem, which is 'Compartment syndrome'.
Recall the definition of this condition: a dangerous increase in pressure within a muscle compartment.
Think about what could cause such an increase in pressure. The most common causes involve swelling, bleeding, or external constriction within a limb.
Evaluate each option based on this understanding.
A 'Fracture' directly causes bleeding and swelling in a confined space, making it the most direct and common cause.
Rule out the other options as they relate to different body systems (eye, appendix, liver) and do not typically cause acute limb compartment syndrome.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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