Question

The nurse is caring for a client with rheumatoid arthritis one day after shoulder surgery. What would prompt the nurse to call the provider immediately?

a) Swelling and mild discomfort at the surgical site
b) Complaints of numbness in the fingers
c) Mild increase in temperature
d) Drainage from the surgical incision

Answer 1

If a nurse is caring for a client with rheumatoid arthritis one day after shoulder surgery, they should call the provider immediately if there are complaints of numbness in the fingers.

Step-by-step explanation:

If a nurse is caring for a client with rheumatoid arthritis one day after shoulder surgery, they would call the provider immediately if they observe complaints of numbness in the fingers. Numbness in the fingers could be an indication of nerve damage or compression, which should be addressed promptly by the provider to prevent further complications.