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
Explanation
A 24-hour creatinine clearance test is used to evaluate how well the kidneys are functioning by measuring the amount of creatinine in the blood and urine over a 24-hour period. During the test, the client is asked to discard their first-morning void and then collect all urine for the next 24 hours.
Option A is incorrect because a protein-rich diet can affect the creatinine levels in the urine, which can result in inaccurate test results. Therefore, the nurse should advise the client to avoid a protein-rich diet during the collection period.
Option B is incorrect because blood glucose levels are not relevant to a 24-hour creatinine clearance test. Therefore, the nurse should not ask the client to record their blood glucose level each time they void.
Option D is incorrect because using an antiseptic towel to cleanse the perineal area can also affect the test results by introducing contaminants into the urine sample. Therefore, the nurse should advise the client to cleanse the perineal area with soap and water or an alcohol wipe.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Sponge baths are recommended until the umbilical cord stump falls off, which typically occurs within the first two weeks of life. After that, the baby can be immersed in water for a regular bath. Using talcum powder is not recommended as it can be harmful to the baby's respiratory system if inhaled. Mild, pH-balanced soap should be used instead of alkaline soap to avoid irritating the baby's delicate skin. The bathwater temperature should be around 98 degrees Fahrenheit and not hoter than 100 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent burns.
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