Moderate

On the first postoperative day, a patient reports new calf tenderness and one lower leg is swollen and warmer than the other. Which action should the nurse take?

Correct answer: C. Keep the patient in bed and notify the provider

  • A. Massage the painful calf gently
  • B. Encourage vigorous walking
  • C. Keep the patient in bed and notify the provider
  • D. Apply a tight elastic bandage immediately

Explanation

Unilateral calf pain, warmth and swelling suggest possible deep vein thrombosis. The nurse should avoid massage and unnecessary ambulation, maintain safety and report the finding promptly because embolisation can threaten breathing and circulation.

Submitted by a TestUstad contributor and published by the TestUstad editorial teamLast updated
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About Perioperative Nursing

Covers preoperative assessment, informed consent, surgical preparation, anaesthesia, intraoperative safety and postoperative recovery. It includes sterile technique, surgical positioning, wound and drain care, pain and nausea management, fluid balance, prevention of infection and recognition of complications such as haemorrhage, atelectasis and shock.

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