After repair of an abdominal aortic aneurysm, the nurse notes that the patient does not have popliteal, posterior tibial, or dorsalis pedis pulses. The legs are cool and mottled. Which action is appropriate for the nurse to take first?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Many patients with aortic aneurysms also have peripheral arterial disease, so the nurse should check the preoperative assessment to determine whether pulses were present before surgery before notifying the health care providers about the absent pulses. Because the patient's symptoms suggest graft occlusion or multiple emboli and a possible need to return to surgery, it is not appropriate to wait 30 minutes before taking action. Elevating the legs will decrease blood flow.

After Repair of an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm, the Nurse Notes