A client hospitalized with an open reduction and internal fixation of a fractured femur reports right calf pain. The nurse notes that the client's right calf is 3.5 cm larger than the left calf with generalized posterior erythema. The right calf is tender to touch, and the dorsalis pedis pulse is 3/4+ bilaterally. Which of the following is the priority action by the nurse?
A)Use a Doppler stethoscope to confirm pedal pulses.
B)Notify the healthcare provider of the findings.
C)Prepare to apply a cast to the right leg.
D)Prepare to administer intravenous heparin.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A)These findings indicate possible deep vein thrombosis (DVT). The nurse's first action upon assessing these signs and symptoms should be to notify the healthcare provider immediately. If a pedal pulse can be palpated, then a Doppler stethoscope is not needed; however, a Doppler ultrasound test may be ordered by the provider. A cast is not indicated with internal fixation. Intravenous heparin will likely be ordered after the condition is confirmed by the provider.
B)These findings indicate possible deep vein thrombosis (DVT). The nurse's first action upon assessing these signs and symptoms should be to notify the healthcare provider immediately. If a pedal pulse can be palpated, then a Doppler stethoscope is not needed; however, a Doppler ultrasound test may be ordered by the provider. A cast is not indicated with internal fixation. Intravenous heparin will likely be ordered after the condition is confirmed by the provider.
C)These findings indicate possible deep vein thrombosis (DVT). The nurse's first action upon assessing these signs and symptoms should be to notify the healthcare provider immediately. If a pedal pulse can be palpated, then a Doppler stethoscope is not needed; however, a Doppler ultrasound test may be ordered by the provider. A cast is not indicated with internal fixation. Intravenous heparin will likely be ordered after the condition is confirmed by the provider.
D)These findings indicate possible deep vein thrombosis (DVT). The nurse's first action upon assessing these signs and symptoms should be to notify the healthcare provider immediately. If a pedal pulse can be palpated, then a Doppler stethoscope is not needed; however, a Doppler ultrasound test may be ordered by the provider. A cast is not indicated with internal fixation. Intravenous heparin will likely be ordered after the condition is confirmed by the provider.

A Client Hospitalized with an Open Reduction and Internal Fixation