A client has lower extremity edema.Which intervention should the nurse implement to help with this client's venous return?
A) Increase the amount of daily exercise.
B) Wear well-fitting shoes with dry socks.
C) Adhere to prescribed medication regimen.
D) Elevate the legs above the level of the heart.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Elevating the legs above the level of the heart helps to promote venous return by using gravity to aid in the movement of blood back to the heart. This can reduce swelling and edema in the lower extremities. Increasing daily exercise and wearing well-fitting shoes with dry socks can also contribute to venous return, but elevating the legs is the most effective intervention for immediate relief of edema. Adhering to a prescribed medication regimen may also be important, but the question specifically asks about interventions to help with venous return.

A Client Has Lower Extremity Edema