Patient Data Exhibits For each assessment finding, click to indicate whether the findings from the client's assessment are generally associated with rotator cuff injury and/or humeral fracture. Each column must have at least one response selected.
Explanation & Rationale
Reduced pulse distal to injury: A humeral fracture can damage surrounding vasculature, especially the brachial artery, leading to compromised circulation. This results in weak or absent distal pulses, which requires urgent evaluation for possible neurovascular compromise. • Decreased range of motion: Both rotator cuff injury and humeral fracture commonly cause impaired shoulder mobility. A rotator cuff tear limits abduction and overhead activities, while a fracture mechanically restricts movement due to pain, swelling, or bone displacement. • Coolness of skin: A humeral fracture can impair blood flow by compressing or injuring vessels, producing ischemic changes such as cool skin. This finding signals inadequate perfusion, which can progress to serious complications if untreated. • Pain with movement: Both a rotator cuff tear and humeral fracture are associated with pain on movement. In a tear, the pain stems from tendon injury and inflammation, while in a fracture, bone disruption and soft tissue trauma intensify pain when the joint is moved. • 1+ strength in left upper extremity: Weakness in the affected arm is more typical of rotator cuff injury, as tendon disruption limits muscular function and reduces lifting ability. This differs from fracture-related pain, where strength may be preserved but restricted by pain.