The nurse is assessing a client who was admitted yesterday with peripheral artery disease (PAD) and an ulcer on the lateral malleolus. Which finding is most important for the nurse to report to the healthcare provider?
Pain in lower legs when walking.
Black eschar over ankle ulcer.
Absent pedal pulses by Doppler.
Dependent rubor of lower extremities.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Pain in the lower legs when walking, also known as intermittent claudication, is a common symptom of PAD but does not indicate an immediate threat to limb viability.
Choice B reason: Black eschar over the ankle ulcer indicates necrotic tissue, which is concerning but not as immediately critical as absent pulses. It does need to be monitored and treated to prevent infection and further complications.
Choice C reason: Absent pedal pulses by Doppler indicate a significant reduction in blood flow to the lower extremities, which can lead to critical limb ischemia and requires immediate intervention to restore perfusion and prevent tissue loss.
Choice D reason: Dependent rubor (redness when the leg is in a dependent position) is a sign of poor arterial circulation but does not require as urgent intervention as absent pedal pulses.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Administering IV furosemide (a diuretic) is crucial for managing the client's symptoms of fluid overload, as indicated by enema and elevated brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels. Furosemide helps reduce the volume of fluid in the body, relieving symptoms of heart failure and improving breathing. It addresses the most urgent need for the client.
Choice B reason: Inserting an indwelling urinary catheter might be necessary for accurate measurement of urine output, especially in a client receiving diuretic therapy. However, it is not the most immediate intervention needed to stabilize the client's condition.
Choice C reason: Monitoring for telemetry ST segment changes is important for clients with cardiac conditions. While it is necessary for ongoing assessment, it does not address the immediate need to relieve fluid overload and improve the client's respiratory status.
Choice D reason: Giving a bronchodilator per inhaler can help with respiratory symptoms related to emphysema. However, in this scenario, the primary issue is fluid overload due to heart failure, which needs to be addressed first with diuretic therapy.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Effectively managing pain, discomfort, and diarrhea is crucial for the client's immediate comfort and quality of life. However, it does not address the underlying goal of preventing disease progression.
Choice B reason: Ensuring careful fluid and electrolyte balance is essential, especially during acute exacerbations. However, this is more of an immediate concern rather than a long-term goal.
Choice C reason: Reducing the number and severity of acute exacerbations is the most important long-term goal. Achieving this will help maintain remission, prevent complications, and improve the overall prognosis for the client.
Choice D reason: Maintaining a diet that is high in fibber content can be beneficial for overall health but may not always be suitable for clients with ulcerative colitis, especially during flare-ups. This is not the primary long-term goal for managing the condition.
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