A nurse is providing discharge teaching to a client who will be using a cane to maintain mobility at home following a left knee arthroplasty. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the safe use of a cane?

Choice A rationale:

Exerting firm pressure when placing the probe (Choice A) is not recommended because it can potentially compress the blood vessels and impede blood flow. This can lead to inaccurate readings and compromise the assessment of the pedal pulses in a client with peripheral vascular disease.

Choice B rationale:

Applying the probe to the exterior aspect of the ankle (Choice B) is not the standard approach for assessing pedal pulses. The pedal pulses are typically assessed on the dorsal (top) and posterior (back) aspects of the foot, as well as the lateral (side) aspects of the ankle. Placing the probe on the exterior aspect of the ankle might not yield accurate results.

Choice C rationale:

Moving the probe until a whooshing sound is present (Choice C) is the correct action when using a Doppler ultrasound stethoscope to assess pedal pulses. The whooshing sound, known as "Doppler sound," indicates the presence of blood flow. The nurse should gently maneuver the probe until this sound is heard, allowing for an accurate assessment of the pulses and blood flow status.

Choice D rationale:

Holding the probe at a 30° angle to the blood vessel (Choice D) is not a standard practice for assessing pedal pulses with a Doppler ultrasound stethoscope. The nurse should place the probe directly over the pulse site and adjust its position until the Doppler sound is detected.

Choice A rationale:

Moving the client using a slider board might be appropriate for transferring clients with relatively lower weight and mobility challenges. However, in this scenario, where the client weighs 136 kg (300 lb), a more advanced transfer method is necessary to ensure the safety of both the client and the healthcare providers.

Choice B rationale:

Using an air-assisted transfer device is suitable for transferring clients with higher weight, as it helps reduce friction and strain during the transfer process. This approach ensures a smoother transfer and minimizes the risk of injury to both the client and the assistive personnel.

Choice C rationale:

Raising the bed to 5 cm (2 in) above the level of the stretcher might not provide enough clearance for a safe transfer. Additionally, the use of assistive devices is more appropriate for transferring clients with significant weight, rather than relying solely on adjusting the bed height.

Choice D rationale:

Positioning the head of the bed at 25° prior to the transfer is not directly relevant to the process of transferring a client from a bed to a stretcher. The focus should be on using appropriate equipment and techniques for safe and efficient transfer, especially considering the client's weight.