The nurse is caring for a client complaining of a painful, hot area located on the client's leg. Erythema and edema are present in the localized area. Which of the following actions should the nurse perform next?

Question

1. Palpate the area.
2. Place a heating pad on the area.
3. Notify the healthcare provider.
4. Place client on bed rest.

Answer 1

3
Rationale 1: The nurse would not palpate the area. Reddened, swollen, localized, painful areas should not be palpated because these signs and symptoms indicate the presence of inflammation and possible infection. Disturbance may spread the infection into skin layers.
Rationale 2: The nurse would not apply a heating pad to this site. Disturbance may spread the infection into skin layers.
Rationale 3: Reddened, swollen, localized, painful areas should not be palpated because these signs and symptoms indicate the presence of inflammation and possible infection. Disturbance may spread the infection into skin layers. The healthcare provider should be notified.
Rationale 4: The nurse would not necessarily place the client on bed rest. The healthcare provider should be notified.