A nurse is caring for a client who is 12 hr postpartum and has deep-vein thrombosis of the left leg. The client is receiving anticoagulant therapy. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Massage the affected extremity every 4 hr.
Initiate bed rest.
Apply an ice pack to the effected extremity for 20 min every 2 hr.
Administer aspirin for pain.
The Correct Answer is B
Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT) is a condition where a blood clot forms in a deep vein, usually in the legs. Bed rest is often recommended for clients with DVT to reduce the risk of the clot dislodging and causing a pulmonary embolism. By minimizing movement and keeping the leg elevated, the nurse can help prevent further complications.
The other options listed are incorrect:
- Massage the affected extremity every 4 hours: Massaging the affected extremity can dislodge the clot, increasing the risk of a pulmonary embolism. It is contraindicated and should not be performed in clients with DVT.
- Apply an ice pack to the affected extremity for 20 minutes every 2 hours: While applying cold compresses or ice packs may be useful in some situations to reduce swelling or pain, it is not recommended for clients with DVT. Heat application or cold application should be avoided because they can promote blood circulation and potentially dislodge the clot.
- Administer aspirin for pain: Aspirin is not typically used for pain management in DVT. Anticoagulant therapy is the primary treatment for DVT, and specific anticoagulant medications are prescribed to prevent further clot formation and reduce the risk of complications.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
An incident report is a tool used to document any unexpected or adverse event that occurs in the healthcare setting. It is important to report incidents to ensure proper investigation, analysis, and implementation of measures to prevent future occurrences.
In this example, the incident involves an error with an electronic IV pump resulting in the delivery of an incorrect amount of fluid, which can have serious implications for the client's safety and well-being.
The other examples listed may require further actions but may not necessarily require an incident report:
- A nurse discovers that a client's family member has administered a PCA dose: While it is concerning that a client's family member administered a patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) dose, it is more appropriate to address this situation through immediate intervention, education, and communication with the healthcare provider. An incident report may not be necessary unless there are further complications or system issues related to this incident.
- A nurse observes another nurse remove wrist restraints one at a time from a client who is currently calm: While the observation of improper restraint removal raises concerns about proper restraint protocol, it is more appropriate to address this situation through immediate intervention and communication with the involved nurse and healthcare provider. Depending on the severity of the situation, an incident report may or may not be warranted, but it is not the primary action in this case.
- A nurse observes a client vomiting after receiving an oral pain medication: While it is important to assess and address the client's condition and any adverse reactions, such as vomiting after receiving medication, it may not necessarily require an incident report. The nurse should assess the client, notify the healthcare provider, and document the incident appropriately in the client's medical record.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Including the client's physical assessment findings will provide important information to the physical therapist regarding the client's current condition, limitations, and areas that require rehabilitation or therapy.
While family medical history is important for comprehensive healthcare, it may not be specifically relevant to the referral for a physical therapist unless there is a specific genetic or familial condition that could impact the therapy or rehabilitation process.
Medical health insurance claims are primarily related to billing and reimbursement and may not provide pertinent information to the physical therapist unless there are specific coverage limitations or requirements that need to be considered.
While medication history is important for overall healthcare management, it may not be directly relevant to the referral for a physical therapist unless there are specific medications that could affect the therapy or rehabilitation process (e.g., medications that may cause drowsiness or affect balance).
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