The nurse is caring for a client with compartment syndrome. The client’s husband asks what causes the condition. Which of the following will the nurse share with the client’s husband?
It can be caused by severe infiltration of IV fluids.
It occurs with failure to ambulate after surgical procedures.
Untreated high blood sugars are a contributing factor in some cases.
Numbers 1, 2, and 3 are correct.
Rationale: Severe burns can lead to compartment syndrome because edema increases pressure in the compartments, which house muscles, nerves, and blood vessels. Fractures are present in 75% of all cases of compartment syndrome. Severe infiltration of IV fluids also increases compartment pressure due to edema surrounding the area of infiltration. Failure to ambulate after surgery is not a cause of compartment syndrome. Blood sugar levels do not affect compartments.
