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 This symptom is outdated and not considered a definitive sign.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 A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Vaginal hematomas are usually associated with severe pain due to the accumulation of blood in the tissues.
Choice B rationale
Bleeding might be visible, but hematomas often cause internal accumulation, not external bleeding.
Choice C rationale
Warmth is not typically associated with hematomas; instead, pain and swelling are more common.
Choice D rationale
Redness may occur, but pain is the most consistent symptom.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Checking blood sugar is important in gestational diabetes but isn't immediate priority in a triage setting compared to assessing urgent conditions that could harm the fetus or mother immediately.
Choice B rationale
Assessing vaginal blood loss post-abortion is crucial, but in the presence of ruptured membranes, fetal heart rate checks take precedence to ensure the fetus's immediate well-being.
Choice C rationale
Assessing patellar reflexes in pre-eclampsia management is significant, but immediate priority in labor and delivery triage goes to ensuring fetal safety after membrane rupture.
Choice D rationale
Checking the fetal heart rate after membrane rupture is a priority because it provides immediate information about the fetus's status and any potential complications like cord prolapse or distress.