A nurse is assisting with the care of a client who is requesting pain medication. The nurse returns to the bedside to administer the pain medication within the timeframe given to the client. Which of the following ethical principles did the nurse follow?

A. Wrap the sleeve loosely around the client's lower leg: The sleeve should fit snugly but comfortably to ensure effective compression. Wrapping it too loosely reduces efficacy in promoting venous return and preventing deep vein thrombosis. Proper fit is essential for device function and patient safety.

B. Measure the circumference of the client's upper leg: Measuring the thigh circumference ensures the correct sleeve size is selected, which is crucial for effective compression and prevention of pressure injury. Accurate sizing allows the device to deliver appropriate pressure without causing discomfort or circulatory compromise.

C. Turn on the mechanical unit prior to applying the sleeve: The device should remain off until the sleeve is properly positioned on the client. Activating it beforehand may result in improper inflation, skin injury, or ineffective compression. Turning it on too early can also startle the client and reduce comfort.

D. Position the client prone to apply the device: The client should be supine or with legs slightly elevated when applying a thigh-length sequential compression device. Prone positioning is unnecessary, uncomfortable, and can complicate proper sleeve placement. Supine positioning facilitates correct alignment and device effectiveness.

A. Heart rate: The increase from 88/min to 110/min indicates tachycardia, which can be an early sign of hypovolemia, infection, or sepsis. When combined with hypotension and fever, this finding suggests possible postoperative complications requiring urgent evaluation.

B. Pedal pulses: Bilateral pedal pulses remain 2+, indicating adequate peripheral perfusion at this time. This finding is stable and does not suggest acute circulatory compromise requiring immediate follow-up.

C. Breath sounds: Breath sounds are clear and unchanged from admission, suggesting no current pulmonary complication such as atelectasis or pneumonia. This finding does not indicate an urgent problem.

D. Abdominal dressing: A sudden increase to a large amount of serosanguinous drainage after the client felt something “pop” raises concern for wound dehiscence or possible evisceration. This is a surgical emergency requiring immediate assessment and intervention.

E. Respiratory rate: The respiratory rate has increased from 18/min to 24/min, indicating tachypnea. This may reflect pain, infection, or developing sepsis and warrants prompt follow-up in the postoperative client.

F. Oxygen saturation: Oxygen saturation remains within an acceptable range at 95% on room air. Although it should continue to be monitored, it does not currently indicate acute respiratory compromise.