A nurse is caring for a client arriving to the unit following a cardiac catheterization with a right femoral insertion site. Which of the following is the nurse's priority action?

A. Client develops petechiae on the arms, legs, and abdomen: Petechiae can indicate thrombocytopenia, which may be a complication of heparin therapy but is not an urgent concern unless severe or associated with bleeding.

B. Health care provider orders Coumadin 2.5 mg P.O. to begin today: Coumadin (warfarin) is often initiated as a bridge therapy or overlap with heparin therapy in pulmonary embolism management. This order is not necessarily inappropriate and may be part of the treatment plan.

C. Client develops slight ecchymosis at the venipuncture site: Ecchymosis at the venipuncture site can occur due to minor trauma during the insertion of IV lines or blood draws and is not necessarily indicative of a complication requiring immediate notification of the healthcare provider.

D. Client's partial thromboplastin time (PTT) is 70 seconds and the control is 25-40 seconds: A significantly elevated PTT indicates a potential overdose of heparin, putting the client at risk of bleeding complications. This finding warrants immediate notification of the healthcare provider for further evaluation and possible adjustment of heparin therapy.

A. Dyspnea on exertion: Dyspnea on exertion is a common symptom in clients with heart failure and may indicate worsening heart function. While it warrants monitoring and potential intervention, it is not as urgent as rapid weight gain.

B. Increased urination: Increased urination may be expected with the use of diuretics, as they promote the excretion of excess fluid from the body. This finding is not typically concerning unless accompanied by other symptoms.

C. Weight gain of 2 pounds in a week: A weight gain of 2 pounds in a week may indicate fluid retention, but it is not as concerning as a rapid weight gain over a shorter period.

D. Weight gain of 3 pounds in 24 hours: A rapid weight gain of 3 pounds in 24 hours is significant and may indicate fluid overload, potentially leading to exacerbation of heart failure symptoms. It should be reported promptly to the healthcare provider for further evaluation and management.