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?

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.

Rationale

A. Evacuation centers often accommodate a large number of people in close proximity. This can lead to increased transmission of infectious agents, including those causing diarrheal illnesses, through person- to-person contact or contaminated surfaces.

B. Hurricanes can cause flooding, which may overwhelm sewage systems and lead to contamination of drinking water sources. Consuming water contaminated by sewage can introduce pathogens that cause diarrheal diseases, such as bacteria like Escherichia coli or viruses like norovirus.

C. Flood waters can contaminate food supplies in various ways, such as direct contact with contaminated water, improper storage, or inadequate cooking or refrigeration. Consuming

contaminated food can result in diarrheal illnesses due to ingestion of pathogens like bacteria or parasites.

D. Nosocomial infections refer to infections acquired in healthcare settings. In a disaster medical area, improper infection control practices or overcrowding can contribute to nosocomial transmission of infectious agents, including those causing diarrheal diseases. However, this option is less likely in the context of a client seeking treatment for diarrhea immediately upon arrival at the disaster medical area.