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
Explanation
Choice A reason: Even without mentioning the client's name, discussing health information in a public area like a breakroom can still lead to a HIPAA violation due to the possibility of revealing identifiable information indirectly.
Choice B reason: Discussing health history with a client behind a closed curtain maintains privacy and confidentiality, adhering to HIPAA regulations.
Choice C reason: Faxing health records to a client's primary healthcare provider is a common practice and is not a HIPAA violation if done securely and with proper consent.
Choice D reason: Sharing a client's discharge needs with other treatment team members is necessary for continuity of care and is not a HIPAA violation as long as it is done within the healthcare team.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Modifying nursing interventions is a step that may be necessary after evaluating the effectiveness of care, but it is not the immediate next action after reviewing the expected outcomes.
Choice B reason: Determining if the expected outcomes were realistic is part of the evaluation process, but it requires current data to make an informed decision.
Choice C reason: Obtaining current client data is essential to compare with the expected outcomes and determine if the goals of care are being met.
Choice D reason: Reviewing related professional standards of care is important for ensuring quality care, but it is not the direct next step in evaluating the effectiveness of the client's nursing care.
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