A client comes to the clinic reporting a red rash of small, fluid-filled blisters and is suspected of having shingles. What presentation is most consistent with this diagnosis?

Choice A reason: Reporting any pain that is uncontrolled by elevating the affected limb or by analgesic agents is an appropriate teaching point for the nurse to emphasize, as it may indicate a serious complication such as compartment syndrome, infection, or nerve damage. The nurse should instruct the client to notify the health care provider immediately if the pain persists or worsens.

Choice B reason: Using intermittent heat packs as prescribed to control swelling is not an appropriate teaching point for the nurse to emphasize, as it may increase the blood flow and inflammation in the affected area. The nurse should advise the client to avoid heat sources such as heating pads, hot water bottles, or electric blankets, as they may also damage the cast or cause burns.

Choice C reason: Using a small hair brush to control any itching under the cast is not an appropriate teaching point for the nurse to emphasize, as it may cause skin irritation, infection, or damage to the cast. The nurse should suggest the client to use a cool air dryer, a gentle tapping, or an antihistamine to relieve the itching, and to avoid inserting any objects under the cast.

Choice D reason: Keeping the affected extremity below the level of the heart to prevent swelling is not an appropriate teaching point for the nurse to emphasize, as it may impair the venous return and increase the edema. The nurse should recommend the client to elevate the affected extremity above the level of the heart to reduce the swelling and promote the healing.

Choice E reason: Inspecting the cast daily for cracks, breaks, or signs of infection is not an appropriate teaching point for the nurse to emphasize, as it is not a specific or relevant instruction for the client with a cast on his leg. The nurse should teach the client to keep the cast dry and clean, to cover it with a plastic bag when showering or bathing, and to report any foul odor, drainage, or fever.

Choice A reason: Increased circulation of the calf is not a sign or symptom of DVT, but a normal finding of the blood flow in the leg. It can be assessed by palpating the pulses, checking the capillary refill, or observing the skin color and temperature.

Choice B reason: Pale-appearing calf is not a sign or symptom of DVT, but a sign of arterial insufficiency or ischemia. It indicates the reduced blood supply and oxygen delivery to the tissues, which can cause pain, numbness, or coldness of the leg.

Choice C reason: Increased warmth in the calf is not a specific sign or symptom of DVT, but a possible sign of inflammation or infection. It may be accompanied by redness, swelling, or fever, which can indicate a local or systemic inflammatory response.

Choice D reason: Loss of sensation to the calf is not a sign or symptom of DVT, but a sign of nerve damage or compression. It may be caused by trauma, injury, diabetes, or other conditions that affect the peripheral nervous system.

Choice E reason: Swelling and tenderness of the calf is a common sign or symptom of DVT, as it indicates the presence of a blood clot in the deep veins of the leg. It may also cause pain, cramping, or heaviness of the leg, which can worsen with movement or standing.