A client with deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is at risk of developing a pulmonary embolism. What assessment finding should the nurse prioritize to detect potential complications?
Swelling and redness in the affected leg.
Elevated body temperature and chills.
Pleuritic chest pain and hemoptysis.
Abdominal pain and distension.
The Correct Answer is C
A) This choice is incorrect because swelling and redness in the affected leg are common clinical manifestations of DVT but are not specific to detecting potential complications like a pulmonary embolism. The nurse should focus on respiratory and cardiovascular assessments for this purpose.
B) This choice is incorrect because elevated body temperature and chills may indicate an infection but are not specific to detecting potential complications of DVT, such as a pulmonary embolism.
C) This choice is correct. Pleuritic chest pain (sharp chest pain worsened by deep breathing or coughing) and hemoptysis (coughing up blood) are classic clinical manifestations of a pulmonary embolism, a potentially life-threatening complication of DVT.
D) This choice is incorrect because abdominal pain and distension are not typical signs of a pulmonary embolism. Abdominal pain may be related to other causes, such as gastrointestinal issues.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) This choice is incorrect because chest pain and shortness of breath are more indicative of a potential pulmonary embolism, a serious complication of DVT. While DVT can lead to a pulmonary embolism, the primary manifestation of DVT is related to the affected limb.
B) This choice is correct. Warmth and redness over the affected area, typically the calf or thigh, are common clinical manifestations of DVT. The warmth is due to the inflammatory response caused by the blood clot formation.
C) This choice is incorrect because pedal edema and bilateral leg pain are non-specific findings and can be caused by various conditions, not just DVT. They are not specific enough to diagnose DVT on their own.
D) This choice is incorrect because weak pedal pulses and cool extremities are not typically associated with DVT. These findings suggest potential arterial insufficiency rather than venous thrombosis.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) This choice is correct. Gender is a non-modifiable risk factor for DVT, with women generally having a higher risk than men. Hormonal changes, such as those associated with pregnancy, oral contraceptives, and hormone replacement therapy, can contribute to the increased risk in women.
B) This choice is incorrect because obesity is a modifiable risk factor for DVT, not a non-modifiable one. Clients can work to achieve and maintain a healthy weight to reduce their risk.
C) This choice is incorrect because smoking history is a modifiable risk factor for DVT. Clients can quit smoking to decrease their risk of blood clot formation.
D) This choice is incorrect because a sedentary lifestyle is a modifiable risk factor for DVT. Clients can engage in regular physical activity to reduce their risk.
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