In which of the following situations should a nurse report a possible deep vein thrombosis (DVT)?
The woman complains of numbness in the toes and heel of one foot.
The woman has cramping pain in a calf that is relieved when the foot is dorsiflexed.
The veins in the ankle of one of the woman's legs are spider-like and purple.
The calf of one of the woman's legs is swollen, red, and warm to touch.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
Numbness in the toes and heel might suggest nerve involvement but is not a typical sign of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which involves the veins, not nerves.
Choice B rationale
Pain relieved by dorsiflexion (positive Homan's sign) is not reliable for diagnosing DVT. This symptom is outdated and not considered a definitive sign.
Choice C rationale
Spider-like and purple veins suggest superficial varicose veins, not deep vein thrombosis, which affects deeper veins and presents differently.
Choice D rationale
Swelling, redness, and warmth in the calf are classic signs of DVT due to the inflammation and obstruction of deep veins. These symptoms should prompt immediate medical evaluation and intervention. .
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Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Reflexes of 3+ indicate hyperreflexia, common in pre-eclampsia, but not necessarily critical. Monitoring is essential but not an emergency.
Choice B rationale
Urinary output of 30 mL/hr is within the acceptable range but requires monitoring for any changes. It's not a critical alert.
Choice C rationale
A respiratory rate of 16 rpm is normal and does not indicate immediate risk requiring physician notification.
Choice D rationale
Serum magnesium level of 10 mg/dL is significantly high, indicating potential toxicity. Immediate physician notification is critical to adjust magnesium sulfate administration.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Placing a pacifier in the baby's mouth is inappropriate because it does not address the underlying cause of grunting, which can be a sign of respiratory distress.
Choice B rationale
Checking the baby's diaper is not relevant to assessing the cause of grunting. Grunting is usually related to respiratory issues rather than a dirty diaper.
Choice C rationale
Having the mother feed the baby is inappropriate because grunting may indicate respiratory distress. Feeding should be deferred until the baby's respiratory status is assessed and stabilized.
Choice D rationale
Assessing the respiratory rate is appropriate because grunting in a newborn can indicate respiratory distress. The nurse should evaluate the respiratory status to determine the need for further intervention.