Deck 23: Promoting Circulation

Question 1

A client is prescribed a sequential compression device. Which finding would cause the nurse to question the health care provider?

A) Weak popliteal and pedal pulses bilaterally
B) Diagnosis of breast cancer
C) Diagnosis of Hodgkin's lymphoma with enlargement of the femoral lymph nodes
D) Heart rate of 110 beats per minute

Answer 1

A
Explanation:1. The client with weak pulses in the lower extremities has reduced blood flow to the legs. Applying a sequential compression device could obliterate arterial flow and stop perfusion to the legs, so the order should be questioned.
2. Breast cancer would not impact the use of the compression device.
3. Hodgkin's lymphoma and enlarged femoral lymph nodes would not impact the use of the compression device.
4. A heart rate of 110 beats per minute would not impact the use of the compression device.

Question 2

The nurse could safely assign which task to the assistive personnel (AP)?

A) Removal of antiemboli stockings to wash the feet and legs, then reapplication of the stockings
B) Assessing, every 4 hours, the client's circulation to the feet while wearing antiembolism stockings
C) Evaluating for presence of calf pain
D) Measuring and fitting the client for antiembolism stockings

Answer 2

A
Explanation:1. The AP can safely remove and reapply antiemboli stockings.
2. Only the nurse can assess.
3. Only the nurse can evaluate.
4. It is best if the nurse measures the client and applies the antiembolism stockings for the first time to assure a proper fit.

Question 3

Which action should the nurse question when observing a staff member apply antiemboli stockings?

A) Assisting the client to a lying position in bed
B) Turning the stocking right-side-out
C) Washing and drying the legs
D) Having the client point the toes

Answer 3

B
Explanation:1. The stockings should be turned right-side-out after pulling them over the ankle, so this step is done after beginning the application process, not before. All of the other steps would be correct actions before applying the stockings.
2. The stockings should be turned right-side-out after pulling them over the ankle, so this step is done after beginning the application process, not before. All of the other steps would be correct actions before applying the stockings.
3. The stockings should be turned right-side-out after pulling them over the ankle, so this step is done after beginning the application process, not before. All of the other steps would be correct actions before applying the stockings.
4. The stockings should be turned right-side-out after pulling them over the ankle, so this step is done after beginning the application process, not before. All of the other steps would be correct actions before applying the stockings.

Question 4

A client is diagnosed with a deep vein thrombosis (DVT). For which potential health problem should the nurse plan care for this client?

A) Atherosclerosis
B) Aortic aneurysm
C) Pulmonary embolism
D) Myocardial infarction

Question 5

A client has a history of venous leg ulcers. Which prescription should the nurse anticipate from the health care provider?

A) Bedrest
B) Antiemboli stockings
C) Bathe the legs with soap every day
D) Apply lotion to the lower extremities

Question 6

The nurse is assigning assistive personnel (AP) to bathe a client wearing a sequential compression device. Which direction should the nurse give the AP about the device?

A) Remove the devices before starting the bath.
B) Inspect the sleeves and tubing before reapplying the devices.
C) Ask the client to adjust the setting on the devices after being reapplied.
D) Keep the devices off until the client is prepared for them to be reapplied.