A client with peripheral arterial disease (PAD) has a non-healing ulcer on the foot. The nurse should prioritize which action in the client's plan of care?
Administering analgesics for pain relief.
Initiating prophylactic antibiotics.
Elevating the affected foot.
Promoting regular foot inspections.
The Correct Answer is B
A) This choice is incorrect because while administering analgesics for pain relief is important for the client's comfort, it is not the priority in this situation. The non-healing ulcer may require further assessment and interventions beyond pain relief.
B) This choice is correct. In a client with peripheral arterial disease (PAD) and a non-healing foot ulcer, there is a risk of infection due to reduced blood flow and compromised tissue healing. Initiating prophylactic antibiotics is a priority to prevent or manage infection and promote wound healing.
C) This choice is incorrect because elevating the affected foot can be beneficial to improve blood flow in individuals with venous insufficiency or edema but may not be as effective for individuals with peripheral arterial disease (PAD).
D) This choice is incorrect because promoting regular foot inspections is essential for clients with peripheral vascular diseases, but in this case, the non-healing ulcer requires immediate attention. Proper wound care, including assessment, cleaning, and dressing, should be part of the client's plan of care, but antibiotic therapy is the priority in this situation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) This choice is incorrect because avoiding all physical activity can lead to deconditioning and worsen exercise tolerance over time. Regular exercise is beneficial for individuals with peripheral vascular disease (PAD) to improve blood flow and manage symptoms.
B) This choice is incorrect because waiting until the pain becomes severe and then stopping (known as the "stop-and-rest" method) is not recommended for individuals with PAD. This approach can lead to inadequate exercise and may not provide the benefits of regular walking.
C) This choice is incorrect because engaging in a daily high-intensity exercise regimen is not appropriate for individuals with PAD, especially if they experience intermittent claudication. High-intensity exercise can exacerbate leg pain and may not be well-tolerated.
D) This choice is correct. Gradually increasing walking distance over time is a recommended approach for individuals with PAD to improve exercise tolerance and manage intermittent claudication. The goal is to push the limits of walking distance without causing severe pain, allowing the individual to gradually build endurance and improve blood flow.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) This choice is incorrect because mild incisional pain is common after peripheral artery bypass surgery and may be managed with prescribed pain medications. However, severe or worsening pain should be reported to the healthcare provider.
B) This choice is incorrect because mild swelling in the feet is a common post-operative finding after peripheral artery bypass surgery and may resolve with time. However, excessive or sudden swelling should be reported to the healthcare provider.
C) This choice is correct. Pallor (pale color) and coolness of the affected foot may indicate reduced blood flow to the extremity, which could be a sign of a complication such as graft occlusion or clot formation. These signs should be reported immediately for prompt evaluation and intervention.
D) This choice is incorrect because tingling sensation in the legs is common after surgery and may be related to changes in blood flow or nerve irritation. It is not typically a sign that requires immediate reporting unless it is severe or accompanied by other concerning symptoms.
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