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 B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Stool with fatty streaks is not a common finding in ulcerative colitis. It is more associated with malabsorption syndromes.
Choice B reason: Blood in the stool is a significant finding in ulcerative colitis, especially during an acute exacerbation. It indicates active inflammation and potential bleeding in the colon, which requires immediate attention and intervention.
Choice C reason: Clay-coloured stool usually indicates a problem with the bile ducts or liver, such as bile duct obstruction. It is not specific to ulcerative colitis.
Choice D reason: Hard pellets of stool indicate constipation, which is not typically associated with ulcerative colitis, especially during an acute exacerbation where diarrhea is more common.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Reducing the client's interaction with others during the day can potentially isolate the client and exacerbate feelings of agitation and confusion. Social interaction is important for cognitive stimulation and emotional well-being, even for clients with Alzheimer's disease.
Choice B reason: Awaking the client for reality checks every 4 hours at night can disrupt the client's sleep pattern, leading to increased agitation and confusion. Proper rest is crucial for clients with Alzheimer's disease to help manage their symptoms effectively.
Choice C reason: Clarifying reality with the client about delusional thoughts can sometimes increase agitation if not done sensitively. Clients with Alzheimer's disease may not respond well to direct confrontation about their delusions. It is often more effective to use techniques that do not directly challenge their perception of reality.
Choice D reason: Using distraction and therapeutic communication skills is the best approach. This strategy helps redirect the client's attention to a different, more calming activity, which can reduce agitation. Therapeutic communication involves understanding and validating the client's feelings while gently guiding them towards a more positive state. This approach respects the client's experience and provides support without escalating their agitation.
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