A nurse is assessing a client who is in skeletal traction for a fractured left tibia. The nurse should identify that which of the following findings indicates altered tissue perfusion of the affected extremity?

Choice A reason: Pain with movement of the left great toe is incorrect finding: Pain may be expected in a client with a fractured left tibia, especially if the great toe is moved. Pain is more related to the fracture and may not specifically indicate altered tissue perfusion. Choice B reason: Faint pedal pulse of the left leg is correct because it indicates that the blood flow to the foot is diminished. The pedal pulse is the pulse felt on the top of the foot, and its faintness could suggest reduced arterial blood flow to the foot. Choice C reason: Warm skin temperature distal to the pin site is incorrect: Warm skin distal to the pin site may indicate adequate blood flow and could be a normal finding. Warmth is generally associated with increased blood flow to the area. Choice D reason: Purulent drainage at the pin site is incorrect. Purulent drainage at the pin site could indicate an infection, but it is not directly related to altered tissue perfusion. Infection can lead to complications, but it does not necessarily indicate reduced blood flow to the extremity