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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
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).
Correct Answer is ["C","D","F","G","H"]
Explanation
A.a. Heart rate (98/min): A heart rate of 98/min is within the normal range for adults (60-100 bpm). This does not indicate an immediate need for further evaluation based on the provided data.
B.Blood pressure (112/88 mmHg): The blood pressure reading is within normal limits. This does not suggest an immediate concern.
C. Temperature: The client reports a low-grade fever (38.1°C or 100.5°F), which suggests an ongoing infection or inflammatory process. Further evaluation is necessary.
D.Respiratory complaint: A productive cough with blood-tinged sputum, especially in combination with symptoms such as fatigue, night sweats, and weight loss, is concerning and warrants further evaluation for possible serious conditions such as tuberculosis (TB) or other respiratory infections.
e.Oxygen saturation (98% on room air):The oxygen saturation is normal. This finding does not indicate an immediate need for further evaluation.
F.Weight loss: The client reports a significant weight loss of 26 kg (5 lbs) over the past week. Unintentional weight loss can be a concerning symptom and may indicate an underlying medical condition that requires further investigation.
G.Sputum characteristics: Blood-tinged sputum, especially with other symptoms like cough, fever, and night sweats, can be indicative of serious conditions such as TB or other respiratory infections and needs further evaluation.
H.Travel history: Recent travel to a region where certain infectious diseases are prevalent (such as TB) is a critical factor that requires further evaluation in the context of the client's symptoms.
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