Reference no: EM133867655

Question

The emergency department (ED) nurse is caring for a 20-year-old male client who presents with an open fracture of both the left ulna and radius after falling while riding a skateboard. Nurses' Notes Laboratory Results 7/12, 1500 Client presents to the ED after falling off their skateboard after their college classes. Reports falling on left wrist, with a visible open fracture of the left forearm. Noted 3 to 4+ edema in the left forearm and wrist. Diminished sensation to the anterior and posterior surface of the hand. Prolonged capillary refill noted. Vital signs: blood pressure, 112/70 mm Hg; heart rate, 102 beats/min; oxygen saturation of 98% on room air; respiratory rate, 21 breaths/min with lungs clear to auscultation; temperature, 98.7°F (37.1°C) orally. Client rates pain at 8/10. Scheduled for open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) surgery at 2200 this evening. Client cannot recall the date of the last tetanus booster. Blood drawn for complete blood count (CBC) test. Client discharged to home after education on signs and symptoms to report to the health care provider. 7/15, 1800 Client returns to ED reporting increased pain, warmth, redness, and swelling around the affected area. Client rates pain.