You have applied a rigid splint to a patient's forearm, applied ice packs and elevated the arm. The patient soon begins complaining of severe pain and loss of distal movements. You reassess and note that the previously present radial pulse has disappeared. After loosening the splint, you notice additional swelling and return of the pulse. After you reward the splint, the pulse remains but so does the severe pain. This is an indicator of:

A. Continues swelling.
B. Compartment syndrome.
C. Hypothermic reaction.
D. Improper application.

Answer: B. Compartment syndrome.