A patient with Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) has recently undergone Percutaneous Transluminal Angioplasty (PTA) of the lower extremity. Which assessment is crucial for the nurse to perform post-procedure?

Chronic stable angina, also known as angina pectoris, is a type of chest pain that occurs when the heart muscle doesn’t get enough oxygen. It is often triggered by physical activity or emotional stress and is usually relieved by rest or medication such as nitroglycerin. Therefore, a patient statement that the pain goes away after taking a nitroglycerin tablet would help confirm a previous diagnosis of chronic stable angina.

Choice A rationale
Education on the necessity of continuous antibiotic prophylaxis is crucial for patients who have just recovered from rheumatic fever. Rheumatic fever is an inflammatory disease that can develop as a complication of untreated or inadequately treated strep throat or scarlet fever.
Patients who have had rheumatic fever are at risk of getting it again if they have another strep infection. Continuous antibiotic prophylaxis can prevent recurrent infections and the development of rheumatic heart disease.
Choice B rationale
While anticoagulation therapy may be necessary for some patients with heart conditions, it is not typically the most important nursing action for a patient who has just recovered from rheumatic fever. Rheumatic fever can cause inflammation and damage to the heart valves, but it does not typically cause blood clots, which are the primary reason for anticoagulation therapy.
Choice C rationale
Adherence to standard infection control procedures is important for all patients, but it is not the most important nursing action for a patient who has just recovered from rheumatic fever. The primary concern for these patients is preventing recurrent strep infections, which can be achieved through continuous antibiotic prophylaxis.
Choice D rationale
While physical activity management may be part of the overall care plan for a patient who has just recovered from rheumatic fever, it is not typically the most important nursing action. The primary concern for these patients is preventing recurrent strep infections, which can be achieved through continuous antibiotic prophylaxis.