To assess a client's dorsalis pedis pulse, the nurse applies firm pressure over the top of the foot between the extension tendons of the great and first toes but does not feel a pulsation. Which action should the nurse take next?
Reduce the amount of pressure being applied on the top of the foot.
Document in the nurse's notes that the dorsalis pedis pulse is not palpable.
Obtain a Doppler stethoscope to auscultate the pulse at the same site.
Palpate the site on the inner side of the ankle below the medial malleolus.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Reducing the amount of pressure may not be effective if the pulse is weak or absent; other methods may be needed to assess circulation.
Choice B reason: Documentation is important, but it should be done after all attempts to assess the pulse have been made.
Choice C reason: Using a Doppler stethoscope is a suitable next step when a pulse is not palpable, as it can detect weaker pulses not felt by palpation.
Choice D reason: Palpating the site on the inner side of the ankle below the medial malleolus assesses the posterior tibial pulse, not the dorsalis pedis pulse.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread pain, but it is not directly associated with obstructive sleep apnea.
Choice B reason: Peptic ulcer disease is not commonly linked to obstructive sleep apnea.
Choice C reason: Hypertension is a known complication of obstructive sleep apnea due to the recurrent episodes of low oxygen levels during sleep, which can lead to increased blood pressure.
Choice D reason: Hypothyroidism is a condition affecting the thyroid gland and is not typically a complication of obstructive sleep apnea.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Before initiating tube feeding, it is crucial to ensure that the gastrointestinal system is functioning. The presence of bowel sounds indicates peristalsis, which is necessary for the digestion and absorption of the feeding.
Choice B reason: While measuring the client's total body weight is important for overall assessment and monitoring of nutritional status, it is not the most critical assessment before starting tube feeding.
Choice C reason: Evaluating the client's ability to swallow is not relevant in this scenario since the client will be receiving nutrition through a feeding tube due to malnutrition and dehydration.
Choice D reason: Observing for signs of fluid volume deficit is important, but the immediate concern before starting tube feeding is to confirm gastrointestinal activity through the presence of bowel sounds.
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