During the assessment of the patient, the nurse finds nonpalpable pedal pulses in the affected leg. How will the nurse proceed with assessment?
Have the primary provider prescribe a CT
Apply a tourniquet for 3 to 5 minutes and then reassess
Elevate the extremity and attempt to palpate the pulses
Use the doppler ultrasound to detect pedal pulses
The Correct Answer is D
A. Having the primary provider prescribe a CT:
Prescribing a CT scan is not the initial action for assessing nonpalpable pedal pulses. CT scans are typically used for imaging purposes and are not the primary diagnostic tool for assessing peripheral pulses.
B. Apply a tourniquet for 3 to 5 minutes and then reassess:
While applying a tourniquet may increase the visibility of pulses in some cases, it is not the recommended method for assessing pedal pulses, especially if they are nonpalpable. Tourniquet use carries risks, such as tissue damage or ischemia, and is not a standard practice for assessing pulses.
C. Elevate the extremity and attempt to palpate the pulses:
Elevating the extremity may improve blood flow and make pulses easier to palpate, but if the pulses are nonpalpable, simply elevating the extremity may not be sufficient for assessment. Additionally, palpation alone may not accurately detect pulses in some cases.
D. Use the doppler ultrasound to detect pedal pulses:
This is the most appropriate action. Doppler ultrasound is a non-invasive diagnostic tool commonly used to assess peripheral pulses, especially when they are nonpalpable. It uses sound waves to detect blood flow and can provide accurate information about the presence and strength of pedal pulses. Using a doppler ultrasound can help confirm the status of pedal pulses and guide further management.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Reluctance to monitor blood pressure at home: One barrier to blood pressure management in patients newly diagnosed with hypertension is reluctance or resistance to monitor blood pressure at home. Home blood pressure monitoring is an essential component of hypertension management as it allows patients and healthcare providers to track blood pressure trends, assess the effectiveness of treatment, and make adjustments as needed. However, some patients may feel apprehensive about self-monitoring or may lack understanding of its importance, leading to reluctance to engage in this aspect of their care. Addressing this barrier requires patient education, encouragement, and support to promote the benefits of home blood pressure monitoring and empower patients to take an active role in managing their hypertension.
B. Reduction in work hours: While work-related stress and long working hours can contribute to hypertension, a reduction in work hours would not typically be considered a barrier to blood pressure management, especially if it allows for better stress management, lifestyle modifications, and adherence to treatment regimens.
C. Initiation of an exercise plan: Starting an exercise plan is generally considered a positive step in blood pressure management rather than a barrier. Regular physical activity helps lower blood pressure, improve cardiovascular health, and promote overall well-being. However, barriers related to exercise adherence, such as lack of time, motivation, or access to suitable facilities, could hinder effective blood pressure management.
D. Preference for a low sodium diet: Opting for a low sodium diet is beneficial for individuals with hypertension as it helps reduce blood pressure levels and lowers the risk of cardiovascular events. Therefore, a preference for a low sodium diet would not be considered a barrier to blood pressure management. However, barriers related to dietary adherence, such as taste preferences, cultural influences, or difficulty in meal planning, may need to be addressed to support long-term dietary changes and improve blood pressure control.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Administer post-exposure prophylaxis medication: Administering post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) medication is an essential step in preventing HIV transmission after a needlestick injury. However, it is not the first action to be taken. Before administering PEP, immediate precautions should be implemented to minimize the risk of transmission.
B. Determine the HIV status of the patient: While knowing the HIV status of the patient is important for assessing the risk of transmission, it is not the first action to be taken after a needlestick injury. Obtaining the patient's HIV status may take time and may not be immediately available. Therefore, other precautionary measures should be implemented first.
C. Advise exposed health care providers to use precautions: This is the most immediate and appropriate action following a needlestick injury. Advising exposed healthcare providers to use precautions, such as wearing gloves and washing the affected area thoroughly, helps minimize the risk of HIV transmission immediately after the incident. It is essential to prioritize safety measures for the healthcare provider while waiting for further assessment and management steps.
D. Undergo early reevaluation after exposure: While early reevaluation after exposure is important, especially for assessing the need for additional medical interventions, it is not the first action to be taken. Immediate precautions to prevent transmission should be prioritized before further evaluation.
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