A 73-year-old patient with diabetes was admitted for below the knee amputation of his right leg. Removal of his right leg is an example of which type of surgery?

A. Body mass index (BMI) of 19:

A BMI of 19 falls within the normal weight range. While obesity (high BMI) is a known risk factor for surgical complications, including SSIs, having a lower BMI (underweight) like 19 may not directly increase the risk of SSIs. However, extreme malnutrition or low BMI due to underlying health conditions could potentially impact wound healing and immune function, indirectly contributing to infection risk.

B. History of deep vein thrombosis (DVT):

A history of deep vein thrombosis is a risk factor for surgical complications, including SSIs. Patients with a history of DVT may have impaired circulation or underlying vascular issues, which can affect tissue perfusion, wound healing, and increase the risk of infections.

C. Aged 55 years old:

Age is a risk factor for surgical complications, including SSIs. Older adults, typically defined as those aged 65 and above, may have reduced immune function, slower wound healing, and underlying health conditions that contribute to infection risk. While 55 years old is not considered advanced age in terms of surgical risk, older age in general is associated with a higher risk of complications.

D. Type 2 diabetes mellitus:

Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a significant risk factor for SSIs. Diabetes can impair immune function, delay wound healing, and increase susceptibility to infections. Poorly controlled blood sugar levels in diabetic patients can further exacerbate the risk of SSIs post-surgery.

A. Assess the patient’s respiratory rate, rhythm, depth:

This is the correct action to take first. Hypokalemia can lead to respiratory muscle weakness, which can result in respiratory compromise or failure. Assessing the patient's respiratory rate, rhythm, and depth will help determine if there are any signs of respiratory distress or impending respiratory failure.

B. Call the healthcare provider:

While it's important to involve the healthcare provider, especially if there is a significant change in the patient's condition, assessing the patient's immediate respiratory status takes priority to ensure prompt intervention if respiratory distress is present.

C. Document findings and monitor the patient:

Documenting findings and ongoing monitoring are essential steps, but they come after addressing the patient's immediate needs, such as assessing respiratory status in this case.

D. Measure the patient’s pulse and blood pressure:

While vital signs are important, they may not immediately address the potential respiratory compromise associated with hypokalemia-induced muscle weakness. Assessing respiratory status is more directly relevant to the observed change in handgrip strength.