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.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Blurred vision in the third trimester of pregnancy can be a potential sign of preeclampsia, a serious condition characterized by high blood pressure and organ damage.
Shortness of breath when climbing stairs is a common symptom in the third trimester as the growing uterus puts pressure on the diaphragm and limits lung expansion. While it is important to monitor the client's respiratory status, it is not an immediate cause for concern unless accompanied by severe or persistent shortness of breath.
Leukorrhea refers to an increase in vaginal discharge during pregnancy, which is a normal physiological change. It is typically white or clear and does not indicate any immediate problems unless it is accompanied by other symptoms such as itching, foul odor, or irritation.
Numbness or tingling in the fingers during pregnancy can be caused by pressure on nerves due to fluid retention or changes in the body's circulation. While it can be uncomfortable, it is not typically considered an urgent issue unless it is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other concerning symptoms.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Effective communication with the client is crucial to understand their desires and provide appropriate care. When faced with a language barrier, it is important to use professional interpreter services to ensure accurate and clear communication. By requesting an interpreter, the nurse can obtain a clear understanding of the client's wishes and concerns regarding leaving AMA.
Without clear communication with the client, it is not appropriate to assume that the partner can make decisions on their behalf or sign an AMA form. It is important to directly ascertain the client's wishes.
Discharging the client without understanding their wishes and providing appropriate education or interventions could potentially put the client at risk. It is necessary to have a clear understanding of the client's desires before taking any action.
Asking the partner to reiterate the consequences of leaving AMA to the client: While educating the client and their partner about the consequences of leaving AMA is important, it is not sufficient in this situation. The nurse needs to directly communicate with the client to understand their wishes and concerns.
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