The nurse is preparing to administer sodium polystyrene sulfonate (Kayexalate) rectally to a patient with an irregular pulse and weakness of the lower extremities.
What laboratory finding does the nurse determine is the reason for this treatment?

Choice A rationale

The inability to locate a dorsalis pedis pulse and increasing pain indicate compromised circulation, which requires immediate attention to prevent complications.

Choice B rationale

Pain relieved after administering medication indicates effective pain management, which is not an urgent issue to report immediately.

Choice C rationale

Generalized weakness and increasing sensitivity to touch can be concerning but are not as urgent as signs of compromised circulation.

Choice D rationale

Localized edema and discoloration are expected findings in a fracture and are not as urgent as an absent pulse. .

Choice A rationale

Having the patient lift their back and buttocks using a trapeze allows for proper assessment of pressure areas and skin care. This technique reduces the risk of further injury or discomfort and provides better access for the nurse to assess the skin condition.

Choice B rationale

Asking the patient to turn to the side independently may not be feasible for a patient with a pelvic fracture. This method can cause pain and risk further injury, making it an unsuitable choice for assessing pressure areas.

Choice C rationale

Rolling the patient over to the side by pushing on the patient's hip is not recommended as it can exacerbate the injury and cause pain. This method is not appropriate for patients with pelvic fractures.

Choice D rationale

Deferring back assessment until the patient is ambulatory is not a safe practice. Pressure areas should be regularly assessed to prevent skin breakdown and complications, even if the patient is not yet ambulatory.