When taking the vital signs of a client who had a total hip replacement on the left side 2 days ago, the nurse finds that the client's left leg is cool and capillary refill in the left foot is slug-gish. What is the nurse's best first action?
A. Elevate the left leg and apply antiembolic stockings.
B. Assess the circulatory status of the right leg.
C. Notify the emergency team.
D. Document the finding as the only action.
B
The presenting symptoms may represent impaired circulation or may be normal for that client. Before notifying the emergency team, the status of the nonoperative leg should be assessed and all findings on both legs compared to the client's baseline.
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