A nurse is assessing a client who has a chest tube following a thoracotomy. Which of the following findings requires intervention by the nurse?

- A: A heart rate greater than 60/min indicates that the transcutaneous pacing is effectively maintaining a heart rate within a normal range, which is crucial for adequate cardiac output and systemic perfusion.
- B: While 2+ pedal pulses indicate good peripheral perfusion, they do not directly reflect the effectiveness of transcutaneous pacing in treating complete heart block.
- C: Pacer spikes should appear before the QRS complex to show that the pacing stimulus is being delivered appropriately. Spikes after the QRS complex suggest that the pacing is not capturing the heart effectively.
- D: Distended jugular veins would be more indicative of heart failure or fluid overload and do not directly relate to the effectiveness of pacing therapy.

A. Placing the cane on the unaffected side helps to provide better support and balance for the client. It allows the client to shift weight away from the affected side, reducing strain and risk of falls.

B. The cane should be adjusted to the height of the wrist crease when the client stands with arms relaxed at their sides, not the iliac crest. This ensures proper posture and effective use of the cane.

C. Removing the rubber tip from the cane is unsafe as the rubber tip provides traction and prevents slipping. Without it, the cane could easily slide on smooth surfaces, increasing the risk of falls.

D. Placing the cane in the closet during naps and bedtime is not practical. The client may need to use the cane immediately upon waking, and it should be easily accessible to prevent accidents.