To assess a client's dorsalis pedis pulse, the nurse applies firm pressure over the top of the foot between the extension tendons of the great and first toes but does not feel a pulsation. Which action should the nurse take next?
Reduce the amount of pressure being applied on the top of the foot.
Document in the nurse's notes that the dorsalis pedis pulse is not palpable.
Obtain a Doppler stethoscope to auscultate the pulse at the same site.
Palpate the site on the inner side of the ankle below the medial malleolus.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Reducing the amount of pressure may not be effective if the pulse is weak or absent; other methods may be needed to assess circulation.
Choice B reason: Documentation is important, but it should be done after all attempts to assess the pulse have been made.
Choice C reason: Using a Doppler stethoscope is a suitable next step when a pulse is not palpable, as it can detect weaker pulses not felt by palpation.
Choice D reason: Palpating the site on the inner side of the ankle below the medial malleolus assesses the posterior tibial pulse, not the dorsalis pedis pulse.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D"]
Explanation
The correct answer isChoice A, Choice C, and Choice D.
Choice A rationale:A shuffling gait can indicate mobility issues, making it difficult for the client to safely perform foot care and toenail clipping. This increases the risk of falls and injuries.
Choice B rationale:Urinary incontinence does not directly affect the ability to perform foot care or toenail clipping. It is more related to bladder control issues.
Choice C rationale:Syncope when bending suggests that the client may experience dizziness or fainting when bending over, making it unsafe for them to perform foot care and toenail clipping.
Choice D rationale:Hand tremors can make it challenging for the client to handle nail clippers or other tools needed for foot care, increasing the risk of injury.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Reducing the amount of pressure may not be effective if the pulse is weak or absent; other methods may be needed to assess circulation.
Choice B reason: Documentation is important, but it should be done after all attempts to assess the pulse have been made.
Choice C reason: Using a Doppler stethoscope is a suitable next step when a pulse is not palpable, as it can detect weaker pulses not felt by palpation.
Choice D reason: Palpating the site on the inner side of the ankle below the medial malleolus assesses the posterior tibial pulse, not the dorsalis pedis pulse.
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