A patient arrived at the emergency department after tripping over a rug and falling at home. Which finding is most important for the nurse to communicate to the health care provider?
a. There is bruising at the shoulder area.
b. The patient reports arm and shoulder pain.
c. The right arm appears shorter than the left.
d. There is decreased shoulder range of motion.
ANS: C
A shorter limb after a fall indicates a possible dislocation, which is an orthopedic emergency. Bruising, pain, and decreased range of motion also should be reported, but these do not indicate that emergent treatment is needed to preserve function.
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