A client with psoriasis reports an increase in symptoms. Which action should the practical nurse (PN) implement?

Choice A reason: Bathing the wound daily with soap and water is a common practice to maintain cleanliness and prevent infection in a wound. However, this is not the immediate priority in this scenario. The presence of a dusky color on the left foot indicates potential vascular compromise, which needs to be assessed first to ensure adequate blood flow to the affected area. Cleaning the wound can be done subsequently, but checking circulation is critical to address any immediate risks.
Choice B reason: Recording the color and temperature of the leg is an important assessment step to monitor the client's condition. These observations can provide valuable information about the client's peripheral circulation and skin condition. However, while this should be done as part of the overall assessment, it is not the most immediate action. Checking the pulses will give more direct information about the blood supply to the affected area, which is crucial for identifying any urgent circulatory issues.
Choice C reason: Performing dorsiflexion and extension exercises can help maintain joint mobility and muscle strength in clients with diabetes. However, it is not the first intervention that should be implemented in this scenario. Before recommending exercises, it is essential to assess the vascular status of the client's foot. Exercises may not be appropriate if there is significant circulatory compromise, and could potentially cause further harm.
Choice D reason: Checking the client's dorsalis pedis and posterior tibialis pulse points is the most critical first intervention. The dusky color of the foot suggests a possible issue with blood flow. By assessing the pulses in the foot, the practical nurse can determine if there is adequate perfusion to the area. If the pulses are weak or absent, it may indicate peripheral artery disease or another vascular issue that requires immediate medical attention. Prompt identification and intervention are crucial to prevent further complications, such as tissue necrosis or limb-threatening ischemia.

Choice A reason: While the apical heart rate is important for overall health assessment, it is not the most critical data point to consider before deciding if a client can discontinue oxygen therapy. Oxygen saturation provides more direct information about the client's respiratory status.
Choice B reason: Breath sounds are important in assessing a client's respiratory condition, but they are not as immediately indicative of whether the client can safely discontinue using the nasal cannula. Oxygen saturation levels give a more precise measurement of the client's oxygen needs.
Choice C reason: Oxygen saturation is the most important data to obtain before responding to the client's request. It directly measures the percentage of oxygen in the client's blood, providing a clear indication of whether the client is receiving adequate oxygen while on the nasal cannula. Ensuring that the client's oxygen saturation is within a safe range is crucial before considering the removal of the oxygen support.
Choice D reason: Blood pressure is another vital sign that provides important health information, but it does not give a direct indication of the client's oxygenation status. Oxygen saturation is a more relevant measure when determining if the nasal cannula can be safely removed.