A physician has ordered an aquathermia pad to treat a patient's deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in the lower legs. Before applying heat therapy, a nurse should assess the patient for

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Before applying heat therapy, the nurse should assess the patient's cognitive level of function and orientation because the patient needs to be able to communicate if the heat is causing discomfort or if there are any adverse effects. Additionally, if the patient is confused or disoriented, they may be at increased risk for burns from the heat therapy. The other options, including apical pulse, respiration, and anorexia, are not directly related to the use of an aquathermia pad for DVT treatment.

A Physician Has Ordered an Aquathermia Pad to Treat a Patient's