A nurse is caring for a client who is 12 hr postpartum and has deep-vein thrombosis of the left leg. The client is receiving anticoagulant therapy. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Massage the affected extremity every 4 hr.
Initiate bed rest.
Apply an ice pack to the effected extremity for 20 min every 2 hr.
Administer aspirin for pain.
The Correct Answer is B
Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT) is a condition where a blood clot forms in a deep vein, usually in the legs. Bed rest is often recommended for clients with DVT to reduce the risk of the clot dislodging and causing a pulmonary embolism. By minimizing movement and keeping the leg elevated, the nurse can help prevent further complications.
The other options listed are incorrect:
- Massage the affected extremity every 4 hours: Massaging the affected extremity can dislodge the clot, increasing the risk of a pulmonary embolism. It is contraindicated and should not be performed in clients with DVT.
- Apply an ice pack to the affected extremity for 20 minutes every 2 hours: While applying cold compresses or ice packs may be useful in some situations to reduce swelling or pain, it is not recommended for clients with DVT. Heat application or cold application should be avoided because they can promote blood circulation and potentially dislodge the clot.
- Administer aspirin for pain: Aspirin is not typically used for pain management in DVT. Anticoagulant therapy is the primary treatment for DVT, and specific anticoagulant medications are prescribed to prevent further clot formation and reduce the risk of complications.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
This statement accurately reflects the client's own account of what happened, providing important information about the circumstances leading to the fall. Including the client's statement helps document the client's perspective and can contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the event.
"The client fell because the assistive personnel did not place nonskid slippers on the client." This statement assigns blame to the assistive personnel without sufficient evidence. It is important to maintain objectivity and avoid making assumptions or assigning fault without proper investigation or documentation of facts.
"The client does not appear to have any injuries resulting from the fall." While it is important to assess the client for any injuries after a fall, documenting this information may be more appropriate in the client's assessment or nursing notes rather than in the specific documentation about the fall incident itself.
"An incident report has been completed and sent to risk management." While it is important to report falls and complete an incident report for quality improvement and risk management purposes, this information is more relevant to internal documentation and reporting processes rather than inclusion in the medical record for the client's care.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A: While nitroglycerin is a common medication for angina, calling the provider after just one dose is not the recommended action. Nitroglycerin helps relax coronary arteries and improve blood supply to the heart. However, if chest pain persists, the client should follow additional steps..
Choice B: This describes the Valsalva maneuver, which involves holding the breath and bearing down as though straining to initiate a bowel movement. While this technique can regulate heart rhythms and help the ears to pop, it is not the recommended response to chest pain from angina.
Choice C: Correct: This statement demonstrates an understanding of appropriate action. When experiencing angina, the client should stop any physical activity, sit down, or lie down. Resting helps reduce the heart’s workload and allows blood flow to stabilize.
Choice D: Aspirin can be beneficial during angina episodes. However, the recommended dose is usually 162 to 325 milligrams (one tablet). Taking two tablets at once may not be necessary unless specifically advised by a healthcare provider.
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