A nurse is contributing to the plan of care for a client who is 2 days postoperative and reports pain in their calf. Which of the following actions should the nurse include?
Monitor the client's pulse oximetry.
Instruct the client to massage the calf gently.
Maintain the leg in a dependent position while in bed.
Apply a cold compress to the client's calf.
The Correct Answer is A
Pain in the calf can be a potential symptom of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which is a serious complication after surgery. Monitoring the client's pulse oximetry can help assess for signs of decreased oxygenation, which may indicate a possible clot or compromised circulation. A decrease in oxygen saturation can be an early indicator of a potential DVT-related complication, such as a pulmonary embolism. Monitoring the pulse oximetry can provide valuable information for timely intervention and management.
Instructing the client to massage the calf gently is not advisable without further assessment and evaluation. Massaging the calf can potentially dislodge a clot if one is present, leading to further complications. It is important to rule out DVT through appropriate diagnostic measures before providing specific instructions for calf massage.
Maintaining the leg in a dependent position while in bed can potentially worsen the symptoms and increase the risk of venous stasis. Elevating the affected leg, rather than maintaining it in a dependent position, can help improve venous return and reduce pain or swelling.
Applying a cold compress to the client's calf is not recommended without further assessment. Heat or cold therapy should be applied based on the underlying cause of the pain. In the case of potential DVT, applying a cold compress can increase vasoconstriction and potentially worsen the condition. It is essential to investigate the cause of the pain first and consult with the healthcare provider before initiating any specific therapies or interventions.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Opioid medications can cause urinary retention by inhibiting the normal function of the bladder and reducing the urge to urinate. This can lead to incomplete emptying of the bladder and increased urine retention. Nurses should monitor clients receiving opioids for signs of urinary retention, such as decreased urine output, distended bladder, or discomfort in the lower abdomen.
Opioids generally cause pupil constriction (miosis) rather than dilation (mydriasis). Dilated pupils may indicate other drug use or neurological issues, but they are not a typical adverse effect of hydromorphone.
Hydromorphone is more likely to cause hypotension (low blood pressure) as an adverse effect rather than hypertension (high blood pressure).
Hydromorphone can cause respiratory depression, which is characterized by decreased respiratory rate and depth. Tachypnea (rapid breathing) is not a typical adverse effect of hydromorphone.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
After a tonic-clonic seizure, the nurse should first check the child for any injuries, particularly in the oral cavity. This is because during a seizure, the child's tongue may have been biten, or there may be other oral injuries. Therefore, it is essential to check the oral cavity for any injury or bleeding.
Offering sips of clear fluids is not a priority at this time as the child may still be disoriented and at risk of choking. Placing the child in a supine position is also not recommended because the child may have difficulty breathing due to muscle weakness or constriction of the airways. Administering an oral antiepileptic medication is not appropriate at this time unless prescribed by a healthcare provider.
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