A client is two hours postoperative from a cardiac catheterization via the right femoral artery.
Which assessment finding indicates arterial obstruction?

Choice A rationale

Noting the presence of an auscultatory gap, which is a period of abnormal silence in Korotkoff sounds during blood pressure measurement, is important. However, in this case, the silence followed by a Korotkoff sound is a normal finding and does not indicate an auscultatory gap.

Choice B rationale

After inflating a blood pressure cuff and releasing the valve, the nurse hears silence followed by a Korotkoff sound. This is a normal finding and indicates that the nurse should continue with the blood pressure assessment.

Choice C rationale

Re-inflating the cuff to a higher number is not necessary in this case as the initial silence followed by a Korotkoff sound is a normal finding.

Choice D rationale

Repositioning the stethoscope over the brachial artery may not resolve the issue of hearing silence followed by a Korotkoff sound. It is important to assess the situation further before making adjustments.

• I should have taken some allergy medications before going on the hike.- Understanding: Allergens can trigger asthma symptoms, and taking allergy medication can help prevent an asthma attack.
• I have been very stressed out lately and should work on stress management.- Understanding: Stress can exacerbate asthma symptoms. Managing stress effectively can help control asthma.
• I should have taken an extra dose of fluticasone-salmeterol.- No Understanding: Medication dosage should be as prescribed by the healthcare provider. Taking an extra dose without medical advice can lead to side effects and is not necessarily effective in preventing an asthma attack.
• I should have eaten a snack halfway through the hike.- No Understanding: While maintaining good nutrition is important for overall health, eating a snack specifically during a hike is not directly related to preventing an asthma attack.
• My friend smoked cigarettes during the hike.- Understanding: Secondhand smoke is a common trigger for asthma. Avoiding exposure to cigarette smoke can help prevent asthma symptoms.