A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results for a client who is at 32 weeks of gestation.

For which of the following results should the nurse notify the provider?

Choice A:

An absent dorsal pedal pulse would indicate a vascular problem such as arterial occlusion, not a deep vein thrombosis (DVT). In the case of DVT, blood flow in the veins is obstructed, but the arterial pulse, which is related to arterial circulation, should remain intact unless there is a separate arterial issue. Therefore, absent pulses are not characteristic of DVT.

Choice B:

Shiny, hairless skin is a sign typically associated with chronic arterial insufficiency, not DVT. This skin change occurs when there is poor arterial blood flow, which leads to a lack of nourishment for the skin, causing it to become thin and shiny. In contrast, DVT affects the veins and does not usually cause these skin changes in the acute phase.

Choice C:

Irregular, bulging veins are indicative of varicose veins or chronic venous insufficiency, not a DVT. Varicose veins occur when the veins become swollen and twisted due to weak or damaged valves. DVT, on the other hand, involves the formation of a clot in the deep veins and does not typically cause the veins to bulge visibly, especially in the early stages.

Choice D:

Dull, aching pain is a common symptom associated with deep vein thrombosis. This pain typically occurs in the affected extremity and is often described as a constant, aching sensation. The pain can worsen with movement or standing and is due to the inflammation and obstruction caused by the blood clot in the deep veins. This is a hallmark sign of DVT, along with swelling and redness in the affected limb.

The nurse should report the possible abuse to adult protective services if an older adult client states that their child took all their money. This is an important nursing intervention to ensure the safety and well-being of the client.

a) Instructing the client to report the theft to the police may be appropriate, but it is not the first action the nurse should take. The nurse has a legal and ethical obligation to report suspected abuse to the appropriate authorities.

c) Asking the client if there is another family member they can call for financial help may be appropriate, but it does not address the issue of possible abuse.

d) Restricting visitation for the client's family until discharge is not appropriate and may violate the client's rights.