A nurse is caring for a client who just had a cardiac catheterization through the left femoral vessel. Which of the following nursing interventions should the nurse include in the client’s plan of care? (Select all that apply)

Choice A reason: Measuring vital signs every 6 hours is insufficient for post-cardiac catheterization monitoring. Vital signs should be checked more frequently (e.g., every 15–30 minutes initially) to detect complications like bleeding or hemodynamic instability. Less frequent monitoring fails to ensure timely identification of issues at the femoral access site. Choice B reason: Sitting the client upright immediately after the procedure is contraindicated. Post-femoral catheterization, clients must remain flat with the leg extended to prevent bleeding or hematoma at the puncture site. Early upright positioning increases pressure on the femoral artery, risking vascular complications and disrupting clot formation. Choice C reason: Keeping the hip and leg extended straight is essential to prevent flexion at the femoral puncture site, reducing the risk of bleeding or hematoma formation. Maintaining this position stabilizes the access site, promotes clot formation, and minimizes vascular complications following catheter removal in the left femoral vessel. Choice D reason: Checking all pulses in the left lower extremity is critical to assess for vascular complications, such as arterial occlusion or thrombosis, post-catheterization. Comparing distal pulses (e.g., dorsalis pedis, posterior tibial) to baseline ensures adequate blood flow and detects early signs of compromised circulation in the affected limb. Choice E reason: Bedrest for up to 6 hours, as prescribed, is necessary to minimize movement and pressure on the femoral puncture site, preventing bleeding or hematoma. This duration allows sufficient time for clot stabilization at the access site, reducing the risk of vascular complications while promoting safe recovery.