In a severely anemic patient, which assessment findings would the nurse expect to find?

Choice A reason: Assessing for unilateral swelling, redness, and tenderness is important when evaluating for conditions such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). However, this patient's symptoms of leg cramps and pain that subsides with rest are more indicative of peripheral artery disease (PAD) rather than DVT. Therefore, while this assessment is valuable in certain contexts, it is not the most relevant for this patient's symptoms.
Choice B reason: Asking about skin color changes that occur in response to cold can help identify conditions such as Raynaud's phenomenon, which causes extremities to change color in response to cold or stress. However, this patient's symptoms of intermittent leg cramps and pain with walking are more suggestive of PAD, making this question less relevant in this situation.
Choice C reason: Palpating for the presence of dorsalis pedis and posterior tibial pulses is the most appropriate focused assessment. This patient's symptoms of leg cramps and pain that resolve with rest suggest intermittent claudication, which is a hallmark of PAD. By palpating these pulses, the nurse can assess the adequacy of blood flow to the lower extremities, which is crucial in diagnosing PAD.
Choice D reason: Looking for the presence of tortuous veins bilaterally on the legs is important for identifying varicose veins, which are characterized by enlarged, twisted veins. While varicose veins can cause leg discomfort, they are not typically associated with the type of pain that subsides with rest. This patient's symptoms are more indicative of PAD, making this assessment less relevant.

Choice A reason: A tongue blade is not typically necessary for a patient with status epilepticus. It is more commonly used for oral care or to check the throat, but it is not essential in this context.
Choice B reason: A urinary catheter is not necessary unless the patient has specific urinary retention issues or requires accurate measurement of urine output. It is not standard equipment for managing status epilepticus.
Choice C reason: A nasogastric tube is not typically required for status epilepticus unless there are specific gastrointestinal issues that need to be addressed. It is not standard equipment for managing status epilepticus.
Choice D reason: A suction set up is essential for a patient with status epilepticus to manage potential airway secretions and prevent aspiration. It ensures that the airway remains clear and reduces the risk of complications.
Choice E reason: An oxygen mask is crucial for a patient with status epilepticus to ensure adequate oxygenation. It helps maintain oxygen levels and supports respiratory function, especially if the patient experiences respiratory distress.
Choice F reason: Side-rail pads are important for patient safety, particularly for a patient with status epilepticus who may be at risk of falls or injury during seizures. They provide a protective barrier and help prevent accidental injury.