The nurse enters the patient's room and the patient states, "I think my feet are swollen.". Which would be the nurse's next action?
The nurse applies pressure over a bony prominence of the foot for 2 seconds.
The nurse percusses the tissue that appears edematous
The nurse elevates the patient's feet on a pillow to decease swelling.
The nurse charts, "Patient's feet appear to be swollen."
The Correct Answer is A
A: Applying pressure over a bony prominence helps assess for pitting edema, a common indicator of fluid retention causing swelling. This action provides objective data to confirm the patient's subjective observation.
B: Percussion is not typically used to assess edema. It is more suitable for assessing the density of underlying structures.
C: Elevating the feet may help alleviate swelling but does not confirm the presence of edema.
D: Documenting the observation is important, but further assessment is needed to confirm the patient's concern.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A: This is not suitable for assessing circulation issues specifically in the lower extremities as it is located on the upper body.
B: This is not suitable for assessing circulation issues specifically in the lower extremities as it is located on the upper body.
C: Palpating the posterior tibialis pulse is a logical next step for checking lower extremity circulation, particularly when dorsalis pedis is not palpable, helping localize the evaluation of blood flow in the foot and ankle.
D: The femoral pulse is useful for broader leg circulation issues. However, it is less targeted than posterior tibialis for checking blood flow in the lower extremities.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A: The daughter's anxiety is secondary information and not directly related to the patient's health status.
B: The patient's self-reported medical history is primary data as it comes directly from the patient and provides essential information for the assessment.
C: The spouse's report of the patient's difficulty sleeping is secondary information and not directly observed or reported by the patient.
D: The caregiver's complaint is secondary information and does not provide direct insight into the patient's health status.
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