Questions: A client with a sports injury reports ankle pain. The nurse suspects an ankle fracture. Which findings would support this suspicion? Select all that apply. - tenderness over the posterior malleolus - inability to bear weight when taking four steps - inflammation of the metatarsophalangeal joint - recent trauma - bone spurs on the calcaneus

The findings that would support the suspicion of an ankle fracture are:

1. Tenderness over the posterior malleolus: This is a common sign of an ankle fracture, particularly involving the bones around the ankle joint.

2. Inability to bear weight when taking four steps: This is a classic indicator of a potential fracture. If a person cannot bear weight on the affected ankle, it suggests a significant injury, possibly a fracture.

3. Recent trauma: A history of recent trauma to the ankle area is a strong indicator that a fracture could have occurred, especially if the trauma was significant enough to cause such an injury.

Explanation for each option:

• Tenderness over the posterior malleolus: Correct. This is a typical sign of an ankle fracture, as fractures often occur in the malleolus area.

• Inability to bear weight when taking four steps: Correct. This is a key clinical test used to assess the likelihood of a fracture. If the patient cannot bear weight, it suggests a serious injury.

• Inflammation of the metatarsophalangeal joint: Incorrect. This is more indicative of conditions like gout or arthritis, not an ankle fracture.

• Recent trauma: Correct. Trauma is a common cause of fractures, so a recent injury to the ankle area supports the suspicion of a fracture.

• Bone spurs on the calcaneus: Incorrect. Bone spurs are typically associated with chronic conditions like plantar fasciitis and are not indicative of an acute fracture.

In summary, the findings that support the suspicion of an ankle fracture are tenderness over the posterior malleolus, inability to bear weight when taking four steps, and recent trauma.