A nurse is collecting data from a client who is 1 day postoperative following a total hip arthroplasty and has
deep-vein thrombosis. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect in the affected extremity?
Absent dorsal pedal pulse
Shiny, hairless skin
Irregular, bulging veins
Dull, aching pain
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A:
An absent dorsal pedal pulse would indicate a vascular problem such as arterial occlusion, not a deep vein thrombosis (DVT). In the case of DVT, blood flow in the veins is obstructed, but the arterial pulse, which is related to arterial circulation, should remain intact unless there is a separate arterial issue. Therefore, absent pulses are not characteristic of DVT.
Choice B:
Shiny, hairless skin is a sign typically associated with chronic arterial insufficiency, not DVT. This skin change occurs when there is poor arterial blood flow, which leads to a lack of nourishment for the skin, causing it to become thin and shiny. In contrast, DVT affects the veins and does not usually cause these skin changes in the acute phase.
Choice C:
Irregular, bulging veins are indicative of varicose veins or chronic venous insufficiency, not a DVT. Varicose veins occur when the veins become swollen and twisted due to weak or damaged valves. DVT, on the other hand, involves the formation of a clot in the deep veins and does not typically cause the veins to bulge visibly, especially in the early stages.
Choice D:
Dull, aching pain is a common symptom associated with deep vein thrombosis. This pain typically occurs in the affected extremity and is often described as a constant, aching sensation. The pain can worsen with movement or standing and is due to the inflammation and obstruction caused by the blood clot in the deep veins. This is a hallmark sign of DVT, along with swelling and redness in the affected limb.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The most concerning finding in the assessment of a client's right leg after a femoropopliteal bypass graft would be if the client's pedal pulse in the right foot is not palpable. This could indicate a problem with blood flow to the limb.
The other options are also concerning and should be reported to the healthcare provider.
a) A cooler footmay indicate decreased blood flow to the limb.
c) A capillary refill time of 5 secondsmay also indicate decreased blood flow.
d) A pain level of 8 on a scale from 0 to 10should also be reported and addressed.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D","F"]
Explanation
Answer: A, B, D, F
Rationale:
A. "The ECT procedure will cause you to have a brief seizure.":
This statement is accurate as electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) intentionally induces a controlled seizure, which is thought to positively impact brain chemistry and alleviate symptoms of major depressive disorder. Educating the client about this aspect helps demystify the procedure and reduces anxiety.
B. "You will not be awake during the ECT procedure.":
The client receives general anesthesia before ECT, so they will be unconscious during the procedure. This reassurance can help alleviate fears associated with being awake and experiencing discomfort during the procedure.
C. "You will be placed on a ventilator to help you breathe during the ECT procedure.":
During ECT, clients do not require a ventilator, although they may receive oxygen support. An anesthetic and muscle relaxant are administered, and while the client’s breathing is closely monitored, a ventilator is unnecessary for this brief procedure.
D. "You will probably sleep the rest of the day following the ECT procedure.":
Many clients feel drowsy and need extra rest after ECT due to the effects of anesthesia and the brief seizure. Informing the client helps them prepare for this common effect and sets realistic expectations for their recovery period.
E. "It should only take one ECT treatment to bring you out of your depression.":
ECT is typically given as a series of treatments over several weeks to achieve lasting improvement in depressive symptoms. One treatment alone is usually insufficient, so this statement could mislead the client regarding the treatment plan.
F. "Some clients experience temporary memory loss following ECT therapy.":
Temporary memory loss, especially of recent events, is a known side effect of ECT. This side effect is generally transient but can help the client to be aware of this possibility, helping them to anticipate and manage any concerns post-treatment.
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