A nurse is providing education to a client with deep vein thrombosis (DVT) about potential complications. Which symptom should the nurse instruct the client to report immediately?
Mild leg swelling after prolonged standing.
Redness and warmth at the site of the affected leg.
Occasional cramping in the unaffected leg.
Mild fatigue and generalized body aches.
The Correct Answer is B
A) This choice is incorrect because mild leg swelling after prolonged standing may be expected, especially in clients with a history of DVT. It is not a critical symptom to report immediately.
B) This choice is correct. Redness and warmth at the site of the affected leg could indicate an inflammatory response or progression of the clot. These signs may be indicative of a potential complication, such as an infection or extension of the clot, and should be reported immediately for further evaluation and intervention.
C) This choice is incorrect because occasional cramping in the unaffected leg may not be directly related to the DVT. While any changes in leg symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider, this symptom is less urgent than redness and warmth in the affected leg.
D) This choice is incorrect because mild fatigue and generalized body aches are non-specific symptoms and may not be directly related to DVT. While it is essential to report any new or concerning symptoms, redness and warmth in the affected leg are more indicative of potential complications related to DVT.
Questions
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) This choice is incorrect because while the D-dimer blood test is used to rule out DVT in low-risk individuals, the Wells score assessment is typically performed first to assess the client's pretest probability of DVT.
B) This choice is incorrect because magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is not typically used as an initial diagnostic test for DVT. It may be employed in specific cases but is not the first-line test.
C) This choice is incorrect because a complete blood count (CBC) is a general blood test that does not directly assess the risk of DVT. It may provide information about overall health but is not specific to DVT assessment.
D) This choice is correct. The Wells score assessment is a validated tool used to estimate the likelihood of DVT based on clinical criteria and risk factors. It is commonly used as the first step in the diagnostic workup to determine if further testing, such as venous Doppler ultrasound or D-dimer blood test, is necessary.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) This choice is incorrect because swelling and redness in the affected leg are common clinical manifestations of DVT but are not specific to detecting potential complications like a pulmonary embolism. The nurse should focus on respiratory and cardiovascular assessments for this purpose.
B) This choice is incorrect because elevated body temperature and chills may indicate an infection but are not specific to detecting potential complications of DVT, such as a pulmonary embolism.
C) This choice is correct. Pleuritic chest pain (sharp chest pain worsened by deep breathing or coughing) and hemoptysis (coughing up blood) are classic clinical manifestations of a pulmonary embolism, a potentially life-threatening complication of DVT.
D) This choice is incorrect because abdominal pain and distension are not typical signs of a pulmonary embolism. Abdominal pain may be related to other causes, such as gastrointestinal issues.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.