A nurse on a medical-surgical unit is assisting in the care of a male client.

Exhibits

Which of the following findings indicate a need for follow-up by the nurse? Select all that apply.

A. Place each sleeve under each leg with the opening at the calf: This is incorrect; the correct placement is with the opening at the thigh and the sleeve wrapped around the entire leg.
B. Ensure two fingers fit between the leg and the sleeve: This is correct as it ensures that the SCD sleeve is properly fitted and not too tight, allowing for effective compression without restricting blood flow.
C. Wrap excess tubing to the side of each leg: This is incorrect because excess tubing should not be wrapped around the leg; it should be managed to avoid kinks and ensure proper functioning of the device.
D. Ensure pressure of the device is at 25 mm Hg: This is not specific enough for all devices; the pressure setting should be according to the manufacturer's guidelines and the client's needs, often ranging between 30 and 40 mm Hg for optimal effectiveness.

A. "I should take my supplement with an antacid to prevent an upset stomach": This is incorrect as antacids can interfere with the absorption of iron. Iron supplements should be taken on an empty stomach for better absorption.
B. "I should increase my fiber intake while taking this supplement": This is correct as increasing fiber can help manage constipation, a common side effect of iron supplementation.
C. "I should drink my liquid iron supplement undiluted": This is incorrect. Liquid iron supplements should be diluted to prevent staining of teeth and to improve tolerance.
D. "I should notify my doctor if my stools turn black": This is incorrect because black stools are a common side effect of iron supplementation and are generally not a cause for concern.