Answer to Question 1
B
Check the fit of SCD sleeves by placing two fingers between the patient's leg and the sleeve. Observe for signs, symptoms, and conditions that might contraindicate the use of elastic stockings or SCD: Elastic stockings and SCD sleeves may aggravate a skin condition or cause it to spread. Remove SCD sleeves when transferring the patient into and out of bed to prevent injury. If the patient is wearing elastic stockings, eliminate any wrinkles and folds before applying SCD sleeves. Wrinkles lead to increased pressure and alter circulation.
Answer to Question 2
D
Ask the patient to remain sitting upright for at least 30 minutes after the meal to reduce the risk for gastroesophageal reflux, which can cause aspiration. The patient must be sitting upright for passage of food through the pharynx and esophagus. Observe the patient's ability to ingest foods of various textures and thicknesses to indicate whether aspiration risk is increased with thin liquids. Observe the patient with various consistencies of liquids. Difficulty managing certain foods may indicate dysphagia, and referral to a dietitian is appropriate if a patient has difficulty with a particular consistency.
Pulmonary function test: spirometry. (a) Normal respiratory volumes, as measured during spirometry.
Patient Information Supplied When Scheduling Hospital Admissions
Walkers help the patient ambulate safely.
Areas of sclerosis (see arrows) in the white matter of a patient with MS.
Apply two-handed kneading to quadriceps, adductor, and abductor muscles of the thigh.
Palpating skin temperature