A client has had cardiothoracic surgery, and the nurse is palpating the peripheral pulses. The nurse cannot palpate the left lower extremity pulse. What is the first action by the nurse?
A) Call the physician.
B) Call the charge nurse.
C) Apply a vasodilator such as nitroglycerin cream on the skin surface and then palpate.
D) Use a Doppler ultrasound device.
D
Feedback:
Palpate the peripheral pulses or use a Doppler ultrasound device if the pulses are not palpable. Prior to calling the physician or notifying the charge nurse, attempt to use the Doppler, and then, if no pulse is heard, you may notify either. Administration of medications without a physician's order is contraindicated.
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