A nurse is assessing a client. Which of the following actions should the nurse take to assess the posterior tibial pulse? (Select all that apply.)
Palpate the area behind the ankle bone.
Use the pads of the fingers to feel for the pulse.
Compare the pulse strength with the other leg.
Assess for any swelling or tenderness
Correct Answer : A,B,C
Choice A rationale
Palpate the area behind the ankle bone. This action is correct. The posterior tibial pulse is located behind the medial malleolus (ankle bone), and palpating this area is necessary to assess the pulse.
Choice B rationale
Use the pads of the fingers to feel for the pulse. This action is correct. Using the pads of the fingers provides a more sensitive and accurate assessment of the pulse compared to using the fingertips or thumb.
Choice C rationale
Compare the pulse strength with the other leg. This action is correct. Comparing the pulse strength bilaterally helps identify any discrepancies that may indicate vascular issues.
Choice D rationale
Assess for any swelling or tenderness. This action is incorrect. While assessing for swelling or tenderness is essential in a general physical examination, it is not a specific step in assessing the posterior tibial pulse.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Irregular pulse. While an irregular pulse is a common finding in atrial fibrillation, it is not the most critical finding to report immediately unless it is associated with other symptoms.
Choice B rationale
Persistent fatigue. Persistent fatigue is a common symptom in heart failure and atrial fibrillation but does not require immediate reporting unless it worsens significantly.
Choice C rationale
Dependent edema. Dependent edema is a common symptom in heart failure but does not require immediate reporting unless it is severe or worsening rapidly.
Choice D rationale
Slurred speech. This finding is critical to report immediately as it may indicate a stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) due to an embolus from atrial fibrillation. Prompt intervention is necessary to prevent further complications. .
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
A respiratory rate of 18/min is within the normal range for adults and does not typically require immediate intervention.
Choice B rationale
A blood pressure of 102/66 mm Hg is within the normal range for adults and does not typically require immediate intervention.
Choice C rationale
Yellow-green drainage from a surgical incision suggests infection and should be reported to the provider immediately for further evaluation and management.
Choice D rationale
Straw-colored urine from an indwelling urinary catheter is a normal finding and indicates adequate hydration and kidney function
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