Lippincott Nursing Pocket Card - April 2022
Neurovascular assessment is performed when there is a suspicion of compromised blood flow or nerve damage, to detect early signs and symptoms of acute ischemia or compartment syndrome. Examples of injuries or procedures that place patients at risk for neurovascular compromise include limb fractures, crush injuries, casts/splints/external fixators, vascular injuries and procedures, and circumferential burns. Components of the focused neurovascular assessment, potential risks, and implications of neurovascular complications are presented here.
The neurovascular assessment of the extremities is performed to evaluate sensory and motor function (“neuro”) and peripheral circulation (“vascular”). The components of the neurovascular assessment include pulses, capillary refill, skin color, temperature, sensation, and motor function. Pain and edema are also assessed during this examination. Comparison of assessment findings bilaterally is extremely important. Even subtle changes can have significant implications. Remember to include neurovascular assessment findings of all extremities in your documentation and to notify the appropriate health care provider of any changes. Pulses
The frequency of performing a neurovascular assessment can vary within health care organizations and across units, providers, diagnosis, or procedure. On average, if there is no change to a patient's condition, neurovascular assessments typically default to every 4 hours. For at risk patients, it is a best practice recommendation for nurses to perform a neurovascular assessment together during handoff or a change in shift.
Already a member? Sign in
© 2022 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries. All rights reserved. – Terms & Conditions – Privacy Policy – Disclaimer -- v08.01.00