Practice Question
A nurse assesses a client 2 hours after a cardiac catheterization via the left femoral artery. The nurse notes that the left pedal pulse is weak. Which action should the nurse take?
Answer Choices:
Correct Answer:
Assess the color and temperature of the left leg
Rationale:
🔷A weak pedal pulse after femoral catheterization may signal arterial obstruction, hematoma formation, or thrombus development, which can compromise distal circulation.
🔷The priority nursing action is to assess circulation, including color, temperature, capillary refill, sensation, and movement of the affected limb.
🔷These findings help determine whether perfusion is adequate or if arterial occlusion is developing—a potential medical emergency requiring prompt provider notification.
🔷Documenting this baseline comparison to the opposite limb aids in early detection of vascular compromise and prevents tissue ischemia.
🔷Interventions such as compression or increased IV fluids should never be initiated before a full assessment confirms the cause.
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This question is from Exam 3 - Cardiac FA25 which contains 37 questions.
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Question Details
- Category: RN Nursing Exam(s)
- Subcategory: Examplify Exam(s)
- Domain: Medical-Surgical
- Answer Choices: 4