A diabetic client presents to the acute care facility for the amputation of two gangrenous digits on her left foot.
Which type of perfusion issue has caused this condition?

This is because heat loss by conduction occurs when two objects with different temperatures come into direct contact with each other. The baby’s skin would lose heat to the cold scale by conduction if there was no warm blanket between them.

Choice A is wrong because closing doors and windows to prevent draft (current of air with motion) would prevent heat loss by convection, not conduction. Convection is the transfer of heat from a body to moving molecules such as air or liquid.

Choice B is wrong because keeping a hat on the baby’s head would prevent heat loss by radiation, not conduction. Radiation is the transfer of heat from a body to the surroundings by electromagnetic waves.

Choice C is wrong because thoroughly drying infant after a bath would prevent heat loss by evaporation, not conduction. Evaporation is the process of liquid changing into gas and carrying away heat from the body surface.

Pursed-lip breathing is a technique that helps to slow down the breathing rate and keep the airways open longer. This improves gas exchange and reduces the work of breathing. Pursed-lip breathing also helps to prevent air trapping and hyperinflation of the lungs, which are common complications of COPD.

Choice B is wrong because laying down for 1 hour after meals can increase the pressure on the diaphragm and make breathing more difficult. It can also increase the risk of aspiration and reflux.

Choice C is wrong because restricting the client’s fluid intake to less than 1 L/day can lead to dehydration and thickening of secretions, which can obstruct the airways and impair gas exchange. Fluid intake should be adequate to maintain hydration and thin secretions.

Choice D is wrong because using the upper chest for respiration is a sign of inefficient breathing and respiratory distress.

It can increase the oxygen demand and cause fatigue. The client should be encouraged to use the diaphragm and abdominal muscles for respiration, which are more efficient and reduce the work of breathing.

Normal ranges for oxygen saturation are 95% to 100%, for arterial blood gas pH are 7.35 to 7.45, for PaCO2 are 35 to 45 mmHg, for PaO2 are 80 to 100 mmHg, and for HCO3 are 22 to 26 mEq/L.