A nurse is contributing to the plan of care for a client who is 2 days postoperative and reports pain in their calf. Which of the following actions should the nurse include?
Monitor the client's pulse oximetry.
Instruct the client to massage the calf gently.
Maintain the leg in a dependent position while in bed.
Apply a cold compress to the client's calf.
The Correct Answer is A
Pain in the calf can be a potential symptom of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which is a serious complication after surgery. Monitoring the client's pulse oximetry can help assess for signs of decreased oxygenation, which may indicate a possible clot or compromised circulation. A decrease in oxygen saturation can be an early indicator of a potential DVT-related complication, such as a pulmonary embolism. Monitoring the pulse oximetry can provide valuable information for timely intervention and management.
Instructing the client to massage the calf gently is not advisable without further assessment and evaluation. Massaging the calf can potentially dislodge a clot if one is present, leading to further complications. It is important to rule out DVT through appropriate diagnostic measures before providing specific instructions for calf massage.
Maintaining the leg in a dependent position while in bed can potentially worsen the symptoms and increase the risk of venous stasis. Elevating the affected leg, rather than maintaining it in a dependent position, can help improve venous return and reduce pain or swelling.
Applying a cold compress to the client's calf is not recommended without further assessment. Heat or cold therapy should be applied based on the underlying cause of the pain. In the case of potential DVT, applying a cold compress can increase vasoconstriction and potentially worsen the condition. It is essential to investigate the cause of the pain first and consult with the healthcare provider before initiating any specific therapies or interventions.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["C","E","F"]
Explanation
In a situation where maltreatment is suspected, it is important for the nurse to report their concerns to the appropriate agency. The nurse should also ask the client how the fracture occurred and conduct the interview with the client privately, without the presence of their child, to gather more information and assess the situation.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Herpes simplex is primarily transmitted through direct contact with the skin or mucous membranes of an infected individual. Contact precautions are designed to prevent the spread of microorganisms that are transmitted by direct contact or indirect contact with contaminated surfaces. These precautions include wearing gloves and a gown when entering the client's room, ensuring proper hand hygiene, and using dedicated equipment for the client.
Droplet precautions are used for infections that are transmitted through respiratory droplets generated by coughing, sneezing, or talking, such as influenza or pertussis.
Airborne precautions are used for infections that are transmitted by smaller droplet nuclei that can remain suspended in the air for longer periods, such as tuberculosis or measles.
Protective environment is a specialized isolation precaution used for clients with compromised immune systems, such as those undergoing stem cell transplantation, and involves strict control of the environment to reduce the risk of acquiring infections.
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