Four days following an abdominal aortic aneurysm repair, the client is exhibiting edema of both lower extremities, and pedal pulses are not palpable. Which action should the nurse implement first?
Elevate extremities on pillows.
Evaluate edema for pitting.
Wrap the feet with warmed blankets.
Assess pulses with a vascular Doppler
The Correct Answer is D
A. Elevate extremities on pillows:
While elevation can be beneficial for reducing dependent edema, the priority is to assess the pulses first to determine the adequacy of peripheral perfusion.
B. Evaluate edema for pitting:
Assessing edema for pitting is important for gathering additional information, but it is not the initial action in this scenario. Assessing pulses is more critical to evaluate perfusion.
C. Wrap the feet with warmed blankets:
Warming the feet with blankets may be appropriate in some situations, but it is not the priority when the client is exhibiting edema and non-palpable pedal pulses. The primary concern is assessing perfusion.
D. Assess pulses with a vascular Doppler:
This is the correct action. The non-palpable pedal pulses are concerning and require immediate assessment to determine the status of peripheral perfusion. Using a vascular Doppler will help the nurse assess the presence or absence of blood flow in the lower extremities.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Remind the client to practice pelvic floor (Kegel) exercises regularly.
Pelvic floor exercises, such as Kegel exercises, are typically recommended for conditions involving weakened pelvic floor muscles. However, in the context of urinary retention related to sensorimotor deficits in multiple sclerosis, the issue is more neurological in nature. Therefore, pelvic floor exercises may not address the underlying problem effectively.
B. Provide a bedside commode for immediate use in the client's room.
While a bedside commode may be beneficial for individuals with mobility issues, it doesn't directly address the problem of urinary retention. It focuses on providing a convenient means for the client to void when needed, but it doesn't address the inability to empty the bladder spontaneously.
C. Explain the need to limit intake of oral fluids to reduce client discomfort.
Limiting oral fluids is not an appropriate intervention for urinary retention. In fact, it could lead to dehydration, which is not a recommended approach. The focus should be on addressing the difficulty in voiding through appropriate techniques.
D. Teach the client techniques for performing intermittent catheterization.
This is the correct choice. Intermittent catheterization is a direct and effective method to manage urinary retention in clients with sensorimotor deficits. Teaching the client how to perform intermittent catheterization empowers them to maintain regular bladder emptying and prevent complications associated with urinary retention.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Platelet count 40,000 x10/μL (40.000 x109/L):
This is the correct answer. A platelet count of 40,000 x10/μL is significantly below the normal range (usually around 150,000 to 450,000/μL). Low platelet count (thrombocytopenia) can increase the risk of bleeding during and after a surgical procedure. The healthcare provider should be alerted to assess the risk and determine the appropriate management.
B. White blood cells 9,000/μL (9x109/L):
The white blood cell count is within the normal range, and it is not a significant concern for a vertebroplasty procedure.
C. Hematocrit 38% (0.38):
The hematocrit level is within the normal range and is not a significant concern for a vertebroplasty procedure.
D. Hemoglobin 12 g/dL (120 g/L):
The hemoglobin level is within the normal range and is not a significant concern for a vertebroplasty procedure.
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