NursingPlex
    Sign In
    Pharmacology exam proctored exam
    Select All That Apply

    The nurse is caring for a patient who has just returned from a cardiac catheterization through the femoral artery. The nurse knows that what three interventions are important to add to the patient's plan of care? (Select all that apply.)

    Explanation & Rationale

    A. Maintain pressure over the insertion site: The femoral artery is a high-pressure vessel, and the puncture site is at significant risk for hematoma or hemorrhage. Applying a pressure dressing or sandbag helps ensure hemostasis during the initial recovery period. Monitoring the site for bleeding is a critical nursing priority to prevent hypovolemic complications. B. Assist with amputation 2 hours after recovery: Amputation is not a standard or expected outcome of a cardiac catheterization procedure. This intervention would only be considered in the case of extreme, irreversible limb ischemia, which is a rare and severe complication. Nursing care focuses on preserving the limb through vigilant neurovascular assessment. C. Place the client in semi-Fowler's position: Following a femoral artery catheterization, the patient must remain supine with the affected leg kept straight for several hours. Elevating the head of the bed to semi-Fowler's position increases intra-abdominal pressure and the risk of bleeding at the groin site. Hip flexion is strictly contraindicated until the artery has sufficiently healed. D. Assess pedal pulses bilaterally: Frequent assessment of distal pulses is necessary to ensure that the catheterization did not cause an arterial occlusion or thrombosis. Comparing the pulses in both feet allows the nurse to detect subtle changes in perfusion to the affected extremity. Weak or absent pulses require immediate notification of the surgical team. E. Monitor color and warmth of the left leg frequently: Skin temperature and color are essential indicators of arterial blood flow and tissue oxygenation. A cold, pale, or cyanotic limb suggests compromised circulation distal to the femoral insertion site. These neurovascular checks are vital for early detection of vascular complications following the invasive procedure.

    🔒 Submit your answer to reveal