A nurse is monitoring an assistive personnel (AP) who is applying elastic antiembolic stockings for a client who has phlebitis. Which of the following actions by the AP indicates that they are performing the skill correctly?

Answer: B

Rationale:

A) Use written signs to assist the client with locating the bathroom: While written signs may be helpful in the earlier stages of Alzheimer's disease, as the disease progresses, clients may lose the ability to read and comprehend written language. Visual cues, such as pictures or color-coded indicators, tend to be more effective in helping clients navigate their environment.

B) Limit the number of choices for the client: Limiting choices reduces confusion and anxiety for clients with Alzheimer's disease. Providing too many options can overwhelm them, making decision-making difficult. Offering simple, clear choices helps to maintain a sense of autonomy while minimizing stress.

C) Provide a stimulating environment for the client: Although some stimulation can be beneficial, excessive stimulation can overwhelm a client with Alzheimer's disease, leading to agitation and confusion. It's important to create a calm, structured environment that promotes safety and reduces anxiety.

D) Use confrontation to manage the client’s behavior: Confrontation should be avoided when managing the behavior of clients with Alzheimer's disease. Confronting or challenging them can increase agitation and lead to further confusion. Instead, caregivers should use distraction, redirection, and a calm approach to manage difficult behaviors effectively.

Elevating the legs helps to reduce swelling and promotes venous return, which is beneficial for a client with phlebitis. This action improves circulation and aids in preventing the formation of blood clots.

Rolls the extra stocking material down to the client's knee: This action is incorrect because elastic antiembolic stockings should be applied evenly and smoothly without any excess material. Rolling down the extra material can create folds and wrinkles, which can compromise the effectiveness of the stockings and potentially cause discomfort or impaired circulation.

Massages the legs before applying the stockings: Massaging the legs before applying antiembolic stockings is not recommended. Massaging can stimulate blood flow and may dislodge any existing blood clots, posing a risk of embolism. It is important to handle the legs gently and avoid any aggressive or manipulative actions that can disturb the clots.

Positions the client in a chair before applying the stockings: Positioning the client in a chair before applying antiembolic stockings is not the correct action. It is preferable to have the client lie flat in a supine position, with the legs elevated, while applying the stockings. Lying flat helps improve venous return and ensures proper alignment and positioning of the stockings.