A nurse is assessing a client who is postpartum and has developed endometritis.
Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

Choice A rationale

Spina bifida is associated with a high incidence of latex allergy due to repeated surgical procedures and catheterizations. There is a documented cross-reactivity between latex proteins and certain food proteins, particularly those found in bananas, avocados, kiwis, and chestnuts. These foods share similar antigenic determinants.

Choice B rationale

Strawberries are not typically associated with latex cross-reactivity. While they can cause allergic reactions in some individuals, the proteins responsible for these allergies do not share the same antigenic structures as those found in natural rubber latex. Therefore, a latex allergy does not necessarily predict a strawberry allergy.

Choice C rationale

Almonds are a tree nut, and while tree nut allergies are common, they are not typically linked to latex cross-reactivity. The allergenic proteins in almonds, such as the major protein Amandin, are structurally different from the proteins found in natural rubber latex, minimizing the risk of a cross-reaction.

Choice D rationale

Hazelnuts, like almonds, are a type of tree nut and are not generally known for cross-reactivity with latex. The proteins that trigger hazelnut allergies do not share significant homology with the proteins in natural rubber latex, so there is no established correlation between a latex allergy and a hazelnut allergy. .

Choice A rationale

Measuring the client's legs with a tape measure is the correct action to ensure proper sizing of the antiembolic stockings. Correct sizing is critical for effective venous compression and to prevent complications such as skin irritation, tissue damage, or impaired circulation. Stockings that are too tight can act as a tourniquet, while those that are too loose will not provide the necessary graduated compression to facilitate venous return and prevent blood stasis, which is the underlying cause of deep-vein thrombosis. This precise measurement ensures the stockings fit snugly and provide optimal therapeutic benefit.

Choice B rationale

Removing the stockings every 24 hours is an insufficient interval for skin integrity checks and to allow for proper cleaning and assessment. The standard practice involves removing antiembolic stockings at least twice daily for a short period. This allows the nurse to inspect the client's skin for any signs of pressure, irritation, or breakdown, and to perform hygiene. Prolonged, continuous wear without breaks can compromise skin integrity and increase the risk of developing pressure injuries, especially in a client who is less mobile due to their condition.

Choice C rationale

Folding the stockings at the top is a harmful and dangerous practice. Folding creates a constrictive band around the client's leg, which acts as a tourniquet. This constriction impedes venous and lymphatic return, leading to increased risk of blood stasis, edema, and tissue damage. The pressure from the folded band can severely compromise circulation and potentially worsen the client's underlying deep-vein thrombosis. The stockings should be smooth and wrinkle-free to provide uniform graduated compression.

Choice D rationale

Massaging the legs of a client with deep-vein thrombosis (DVT) is contraindicated and can be extremely dangerous. Massaging can dislodge the thrombus (blood clot) from the venous wall. If the clot becomes dislodged, it can travel through the bloodstream, leading to a pulmonary embolism (PE), a life-threatening condition where the clot obstructs a pulmonary artery in the lungs. Therefore, any form of massage or direct pressure on the affected limb is strictly avoided to prevent this potentially fatal complication. *.