Question

a hospitalized post - operative client exhibits edema, pain, erythema, and warmth in the right calf area. what is the nurses best action?
encourage early ambulation.
discontinue the indwelling urinary catheter.
notify the health care provider.
assist the client to turn, cough, and deep breathe.

Explanation:

The client's symptoms (edema, pain, erythema, warmth in the calf) may indicate a deep - vein thrombosis (DVT) or another serious condition. The nurse's priority is to inform the healthcare provider who can order appropriate diagnostic tests and treatments. Early ambulation may dislodge a potential clot if present. Discontinuing the indwelling urinary catheter is not related to these calf symptoms. Assisting with turning, coughing, and deep - breathing is important for preventing respiratory complications but not for addressing the calf problem.

Answer:

C. Notify the health care provider.