OCC Neurovascular Assessment & Monitoring Flashcards

The classic '5 P's' of neurovascular assessment include all of the following EXCEPT:

Answer: Perspiration

The 5 P's are Pain, Pallor, Paresthesia, Pulselessness, and Paralysis/Paresis — perspiration is not included.

A capillary refill time greater than how many seconds is considered abnormal in a casted extremity?

Answer: 2 seconds

Capillary refill greater than 2 seconds indicates impaired peripheral perfusion and requires prompt evaluation.

Which nerve is assessed by testing sensation in the first dorsal web space (between the thumb and index finger) of the hand?

Answer: Superficial radial nerve

The superficial radial nerve provides sensory innervation to the first dorsal web space and dorsolateral hand.

Which sign or symptom is typically the EARLIEST indicator of acute compartment syndrome?

Answer: Pain with passive stretch of muscles in the compartment

Pain with passive stretch is the earliest and most sensitive clinical indicator of compartment syndrome, preceding pulselessness and paralysis.

Pallor of the fingers in a patient with a freshly applied long arm cast most likely indicates:

Answer: Arterial compromise

Pallor signifies lack of oxygenated blood reaching the digits, indicating arterial compromise that requires immediate intervention.

The radial pulse is best assessed in a patient with a short arm cast by palpating at the:

Answer: Lateral wrist at the base of the thumb

The radial pulse is palpated at the radial aspect of the wrist, proximal to the base of the thumb, just lateral to the flexor carpi radialis tendon.

Which assessment finding in a casted lower extremity requires IMMEDIATE notification of the supervising provider?

Answer: Absence of the dorsalis pedis pulse

Absence of a pedal pulse indicates potential vascular occlusion and is an emergency requiring immediate physician notification.