The nurse is caring for a patient who develops a fever and reports right calf pain with a reddened and swollen calf. Which of these actions should the nurse take?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient's symptoms suggest the possibility of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. The nurse should measure the bilateral calf circumference daily to monitor for any asymmetry, which is a sign of DVT. Massaging the affected calf can dislodge a clot, leading to a pulmonary embolism. Placing ice or elastic stocking can also increase the risk of clot formation. Therefore, measuring calf circumference is the best option to monitor for DVT.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Patient Who Develops a Fever