A 40-year-old patient has been admitted to the critical care unit after sustaining multiple injuries from a cave-in accident this morning. X-rays confirm multiple fractures, including the left femur. During the afternoon, he underwent surgery for internal fixation of the left femur. It is now 10 p.m., and the patient is complaining of severe throbbing pain in his thigh. The patient received 5 mg of morphine sulfate IV 30 minutes ago. The anterior left thigh is firm to touch, and the pain increases when the patient flexes his left leg. The nurse should suspect which of the following?

A. Normal pain related to fractured femur
B. Abnormal pain related to compartment syndrome
C. Abnormal pain related to infection
D. Abnormal pain related to lumbosacral plexus injury

The nurse should suspect B. Abnormal pain related to compartment syndrome. Compartment syndrome occurs when there is increased pressure within a closed compartment of the body, leading to impaired blood flow and nerve function.

In this case, the severe throbbing pain, firmness to touch, and exacerbation of pain with leg flexion are indicative of compartment syndrome, which requires immediate medical attention.

Learn more about Compartment syndrome here:

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