The nurse is caring for a 3-year-old client who is two hours postoperative from a cardiac catheterization via the right femoral artery. Which assessment finding is an indication of arterial obstruction?
The pressure dressing at right femoral area is moist and oozing blood.
Pulse distal to the femoral artery is weaker on left foot than right foot.
Right foot is cool to the touch and appears pale and blanched.
Blood pressure trend is downward and pulse is rapid and irregular.
The Correct Answer is C
A. While bleeding can occur postoperatively from the catheter insertion site, it is more indicative of venous or capillary bleeding rather than arterial obstruction. Arterial obstruction typically presents with signs related to decreased arterial blood flow rather than external bleeding.
B. This finding suggests a difference in peripheral pulses between the two lower extremities. While it could indicate arterial compromise, the question specifically asks about arterial obstruction at the site of the catheterization (right femoral artery).
C. This finding is concerning for arterial obstruction. Coolness, pallor, and blanching of the right foot indicate decreased arterial blood flow to the extremity. Arterial obstruction can lead to reduced perfusion distal to the occlusion site, resulting in these clinical signs.
D. These vital sign changes could indicate systemic complications, such as shock, rather than isolated arterial obstruction at the femoral artery site. While systemic changes can occur secondary to arterial obstruction, they are not specific indicators of obstruction at the femoral artery.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Rationale
A. Monitoring intake and output closely is essential to assess fluid balance and ensure adequate hydration. Replacing fluids intravenously based on this assessment helps maintain hemodynamic stability and prevent dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and hypovolemia.
B. After surgery for fistula repair, it is important to monitor wound drainage to assess for complications such as infection or delayed healing. Excessive drainage may indicate issues with wound healing or ongoing inflammation, requiring timely intervention.
C. Turning the client every 2 hours helps prevent complications such as pressure ulcers and respiratory complications. It promotes circulation, prevents skin breakdown, and aids in lung expansion. However, while important, this intervention is more focused on preventing physical complications rather than directly addressing the client's immediate medical needs post-surgery.
D. Clients with inflammatory bowel disease, especially those undergoing surgery and critically ill, are at increased risk for skin breakdown due to factors such as decreased mobility, medication effects, and overall health status. Regular skin assessments help detect early signs of breakdown and allow for prompt intervention to prevent pressure ulcers or skin complications.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Rationale
A. Using water with 5% dextrose (DW) is appropriate for irrigating certain types of catheters, especially those that require a non-saline solution to maintain patency. However, the choice of irrigation solution should be based on the specific type of catheter and the facility's policies. It does not directly address the immediate issue of the luer-lock syringe.
B. Sending someone else to gather equipment may be necessary in some situations but does not address the current issue of the nurse preparing to irrigate with a luer-lock tipped syringe. This option delays addressing the immediate concern.
C. Applying povidone (such as povidone-iodine solution) to the site is a step in the preparation for aseptic technique but does not address the specific issue of the syringe type or the irrigation process itself.
D. Luer-lock syringes are commonly used for irrigation purposes because they securely attach to irrigation ports, preventing accidental disconnection during the procedure. Directing the nurse to attach the luer-lock syringe ensures that the irrigation can be performed safely and effectively.

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