A client who has undergone a femoral to popliteal bypass graft surgery returns to the surgical unit. Which assessments should the nurse perform during the first postoperative day?
Assess pulse of affected extremity every 15 minutes at first.
Palpate the affected leg for pain during every assessment
Assess the client for signs and symptoms of compartment syndrome every 2 hours.
Perform Doppler evaluation once daily.
Correct Answer : A,B,C,D
Assess pulse of the affected extremity every 15 minutes at first: Frequent assessment of the pulse in the affected extremity is important to monitor for any changes in blood flow. This allows the nurse to identify any potential complications such as graft occlusion or compromised circulation promptly.
Palpate the affected leg for pain during every assessment: Assessing for pain in the affected leg is crucial to identify any signs of ischemia or inadequate perfusion. Increased pain could indicate reduced blood flow or other complications that require immediate attention.
Assess the client for signs and symptoms of compartment syndrome every 2 hours: Compartment syndrome can occur after vascular surgeries, and early recognition is vital. The nurse should assess for signs and symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling, increased swelling, and tense compartments. Regular assessment every 2 hours can help detect compartment syndrome promptly and prevent further complications.
Perform Doppler evaluation once daily: Doppler evaluation may be ordered by the healthcare provider to assess blood flow and graft patency. However, the frequency of Doppler evaluation may vary depending on the client's condition and the healthcare provider's orders. Once daily assessment is not sufficient if there are concerns regarding blood flow or graft viability.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Sinus bradycardia with a heart rate of 32 beats/min and accompanying hypotension and symptoms of feeling faint indicates significant hemodynamic compromise. In such cases, the first-line intervention is to provide external cardiac pacing through transcutaneous pacemaker (TCP) pads. TCP can help increase the heart rate and improve cardiac output by delivering electrical impulses to the heart.
Administering the scheduled dose of diltiazem (Cardizem), a calcium channel blocker, is not appropriate in this situation. Diltiazem can further lower the heart rate and blood pressure, exacerbating the client's symptoms and potentially leading to adverse effects.
Repositioning the patient on the left side or having the patient perform the Valsalva maneuver are not effective interventions for treating sinus bradycardia with hemodynamic compromise. These actions may be used in specific situations, but in this case, the client requires immediate intervention to address the low heart rate and blood pressure.

Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Wear fitted closed toe shoes daily: It is important for clients with peripheral arterial disease to wear properly fitted closed toe shoes. This helps protect the feet from injury and provides support. Closed toe shoes also help maintain warmth and prevent heat loss, which is especially important for individuals with impaired circulation.
Let's review the other options and explain why they may not be appropriate:
Soak feet in warm water for an hour each day: Soaking the feet in warm water for a prolonged period can actually worsen symptoms in individuals with peripheral arterial disease. It can cause further dilation of blood vessels, leading to increased blood pooling and potential tissue damage. Therefore, soaking the feet for extended periods of time is not recommended.
Set heating pads on a low temperature: Using heating pads, especially at high temperatures, can be harmful to individuals with peripheral arterial disease. It can increase the risk of burns or thermal injury due to reduced sensation in the affected areas. Heating pads should be used with caution and on a low temperature setting, if necessary.
Use callus remover for corns or calluses: Individuals with peripheral arterial disease have reduced blood flow to the lower extremities, which can impair wound healing. It is important to avoid self-treatment of corns or calluses, as it can increase the risk of skin breakdown and infection. Clients should be advised to consult a healthcare professional, such as a podiatrist, for appropriate management of corns and calluses.

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