Certified Neuroscience Registered Nurse (CNRN) Practice Exam

Which of the following symptoms is NOT associated with acute compartment syndrome?

1. Pale and pulseless extremities

2. Weakness

3. Fever

4. Pressure rising

The correct answer is: Fever

Acute compartment syndrome is a serious condition characterized by increased pressure within a closed muscle compartment, which can lead to muscle and nerve damage if not promptly treated. The symptoms of this condition generally arise from the impaired blood flow and resultant ischemia. Pale and pulseless extremities indicate severe compromise of blood flow, which is a classic sign of vascular compromise due to increased pressure. Weakness in the affected extremity is also associated with acute compartment syndrome as the lack of blood supply can hinder the function of muscles and nerves. Rising pressure within the compartment itself is a hallmark feature of this syndrome, serving as both a diagnostic and clinical finding. Fever, on the other hand, is not a typical symptom associated specifically with acute compartment syndrome. While it may be present in other medical conditions, such as infections or systemic inflammatory responses, it does not directly indicate the vascular and muscular compromise characteristic of compartment syndrome. Therefore, fever does not typically serve as an indicator of this acute condition.