Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 79%
Simulated
Four days following an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) repair, the client is exhibiting edema of both lower extremities, and pedal pulses are not palpable. Which action should the nurse implement first?
Correct answer
A
Rationale
Using a vascular doppler assesses arterial blood flow when pulses aren't palpable, which is crucial after vascular surgery. Loss of pulses could indicate graft occlusion or compartment syndrome, requiring immediate intervention. Evaluating edema characteristics, elevating extremities, and warming feet are comfort measures but don't address the potential vascular compromise.