A patient has returned to the postsurgical unit from the PACU after an above-the-knee amputation of the right leg. Results of the nurse's initial postsurgical assessment were unremarkable but the patient has called out
The nurse enters the room and observes copious quantities of blood at the surgical site. What should be the nurse's initial action?
A) Apply a tourniquet.
B) Elevate the residual limb.
C) Apply sterile gauze.
D) Call the surgeon.
Ans: A
Feedback:
The nurse should apply a tourniquet in the event of postsurgical hemorrhage. Elevating the limb and applying sterile gauze are likely insufficient to stop the hemorrhage. The nurse should attempt to control the immediate bleeding before contacting the surgeon.
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