A nurse is caring for a client post-femoral artery catheterization. What complication should the nurse closely monitor in the client?

A. Applying a heating pad is not appropriate because clients with PAD have reduced circulation, increasing the risk of burns due to impaired sensation.
B. Elevating the leg above heart level can further reduce arterial blood flow, worsening ischemia.
C. Resting and avoiding movement is the best action, as sudden severe pain, numbness, and coolness suggest acute arterial occlusion, a medical emergency requiring immediate evaluation to prevent limb loss.
D. Performing gentle leg exercises is not advisable, as movement could further compromise circulation in an acutely ischemic limb.

A) Incorrect - Administering intravenous pain medication is important for the client's comfort but is not the priority in the immediate postoperative period after EVAR.

B) Correct - Monitoring for signs of graft occlusion is the priority in the immediate postoperative period after EVAR. Graft occlusion can lead to severe complications and requires prompt intervention.

C) Incorrect - Encouraging the client to cough and deep breathe is important for postoperative lung expansion, but it is not the priority when compared to monitoring for graft occlusion after EVAR.

D) Incorrect - Checking vital signs every 4 hours is a standard nursing intervention, but it is not the priority in the immediate postoperative period after EVAR, especially when graft occlusion may pose a more immediate threat.

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