A client has sequential compression stockings in place. The nurse ...

[Chloeellawright]

A client has sequential compression stockings in place. The nurse evaluates that they are imple-mented appropriately by the new staff nurse when the:
 
  1. Initial measurement is made around the client's calves
  2. Intermittent pressure is set at 40 mm Hg
  3. Stockings are wrapped directly over the leg from ankle to knee
  4. Stockings are removed every hour during application

Question 2

A client is leaving for surgery and because of preoperative sedation needs complete assistance to transfer from the bed to the stretcher. Which of the following should the nurse do first?
 
  1. Elevate the head of the bed.
  2. Explain the procedure to the client.
  3. Place the client in the prone position.
  4. Assess the situation for any potentially unsafe complications.

[kmb352]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: 2
Inflation pressures average 40 mm Hg. Initial measurement is made around the largest part of the client's thigh. A protective stockinette is placed over the client's leg; then the stocking is wrapped around the leg, starting at the ankle, with the opening over the patella. For optimal re-sults, sequential compression devices (SCDs) or intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) are used as soon as possible and maintained until the client becomes fully ambulatory. Stockings are not removed every hour but should be removed periodically to assess the condition of the client's skin.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: 4
Before transferring the client from the bed to the stretcher, the nurse should assess the situation for any potentially unsafe complications. The sedated client is transferred most easily in the su-pine position, unless contraindicated. The head of the bed should be at the same level as the head of the stretcher. This client has had preoperative sedation, which may impair his or her cognition. The nurse should simplify instructions when explaining the procedure to the client, but this should be done immediately before transferring the client.