Applying Elastic Stockings
5. After removing a person's elastic stockings, how long should you expect to leave them off before reapplying them? A. 30 minutes B. 60 minutes C. 2 hours D. 4 hours
A. 30 minutes Rationale: After removing a person's elastic stockings, you usually leave them off for 30 minutes or as directed by the nurse and the care plan.
3. When you are caring for a person with elastic stockings, which observation is a concern and should be reported to the nurse? A. Pink, warm toes B. Numbness in the legs C. Reduced swelling in the lower legs D. Increased circulation to the lower legs
B. Numbness in the legs Rationale: During elastic stocking use, patient or resident complaints of pain, tingling, or numbness are concerns. Such observations should be reported to the nurse.
2. Which action is appropriate when caring for a person with elastic stockings? A. Discard the stockings if they become soiled. B. Remove the stockings at least every 4 hours. C. Observe the condition of the person's skin each week. D. Smooth out any wrinkles, creases, or twists in the stockings.
D. Smooth out any wrinkles, creases, or twists in the stockings Rationale: Stockings should not have twists, creases, or wrinkles after you apply them. Twists can affect circulation. Creases or wrinkles can cause skin breakdown.
4. For most persons, how frequently should you remove elastic stockings? A. Once every 8 hours B. Once every 12 hours C. Once every 24 hours D. Once every other day
A. Once every 8 hours Rationale: Usually, you remove elastic stockings every 8 hours or as directed by the nurse and the care plan.
1. What is the purpose of elastic stockings? A. To hold a dressing in place B. To keep the person's legs warm C. To promote venous blood return to the heart D. To prevent pressure ulcers on the heels and ankles
C. To promote venous blood return to the heart Rationale: Elastic stockings exert pressure on the veins. The pressure promotes venous blood return to the heart. The stockings help prevent blood clots (thrombi) in the leg veins.
