While performing a physical assessment, the nurse is unable to palpate the client's pedal pulses. Which action should the nurse take?

Use a doppler ultrasonic stethoscope.

Notify the healthcare provider.

Apply warm blankets to both feet.

Palpate pulse points with legs dependent.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

When unable to palpate peripheral pulses, particularly the pedal pulses, using a Doppler ultrasonic stethoscope is an appropriate action to further assess circulation. The Doppler device uses sound waves to detect and amplify blood flow, allowing the nurse to locate pulses that may be difficult to palpate by traditional means. This assessment technique can provide valuable information about vascular status and potential circulation issues in the extremities.

B. Notify the healthcare provider:
Notifying the healthcare provider is not the initial action for the inability to palpate pedal pulses. The nurse should first attempt to assess the pulses using alternative methods, such as a Doppler device, before escalating the concern to the provider.

C. Apply warm blankets to both feet:
Applying warm blankets may be appropriate for clients with cold extremities due to peripheral vasoconstriction, but it does not directly address the issue of being unable to palpate pulses. Additionally, warmth alone may not improve circulation if there is an underlying vascular problem causing the absence of pulses.

D. Palpate pulse points with legs dependent:
Palpating pulse points with the legs dependent may facilitate blood flow to the lower extremities, potentially making pulses easier to palpate. However, if pulses are not palpable in the supine or seated position, it is unlikely that changing positions will significantly improve their detectability. Using a Doppler device would be a more appropriate next step in this situation.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A) Intranasal edema and swelling of turbinates:
Allergic rhinitis is characterized by inflammation of the nasal mucosa in response to allergen exposure. This inflammation leads to symptoms such as nasal congestion, sneezing, and rhinorrhea. Intranasal edema and swelling of the turbinates are common findings in allergic rhinitis due to the body's immune response to allergens.

B) Eye tearing and thick yellow nasal drainage:
Eye tearing and thick yellow nasal drainage are more indicative of a bacterial infection rather than allergic rhinitis. In allergic rhinitis, nasal discharge is typically clear and watery.

C) Purulent secretions from eyes and nares:
Purulent secretions from the eyes and nares suggest a bacterial infection rather than allergic rhinitis. Allergic rhinitis typically presents with clear nasal discharge, while purulent secretions are more commonly associated with bacterial sinusitis or conjunctivitis.

D) Snoring and bilateral, pale gray nodules:
Snoring and bilateral, pale gray nodules are not characteristic findings of allergic rhinitis. Snoring may be associated with nasal congestion, but pale gray nodules are not typically observed in allergic rhinitis. These findings may indicate other nasal or upper airway conditions such as nasal polyps or adenoid hypertrophy.

A. Tenderness. B. Crepitus. C. Thrill. D. Non-tender.

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Answer: D

Rationale:

A) Tenderness:

Tenderness upon palpation is not considered a normal finding. It may indicate inflammation, injury, or other underlying conditions affecting the thoracic region. Tenderness requires further investigation to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.

B) Crepitus:

Crepitus, which is a crackling or popping sensation felt under the skin, is not a normal finding. It can be associated with subcutaneous air or gas, often resulting from trauma or infection. Identifying crepitus prompts further evaluation to determine the underlying issue.

C) Thrill:

A thrill is a palpable vibration or sensation over the chest, typically felt over an area of turbulent blood flow, such as a heart murmur. It is not considered a normal finding in the thoracic region and usually indicates an abnormal cardiovascular condition that requires further assessment.

D) Non-tender:

A non-tender thoracic region is considered a normal finding. Absence of tenderness upon palpation indicates no immediate signs of inflammation or injury in the thoracic area, suggesting that the palpation findings are within the expected range of normal physical examination.

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While performing a physical assessment, the nurse is unable to palpate the client's pedal pulses. Which action should the nurse take?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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