Applying Elastic Stockings + Using a Sequential Compression Device

4. The nurse is preparing to delegate the application of a SCD to nursing assistive personnel (NAP). Which statement by the NAP requires follow-up by the nurse? A. "I will check for a green light on the mechanical unit." B. "I will remove the SCD before ambulating the patient." C. "I will tell you if I see any signs of itching, redness, or irritation on the patient's legs." D. "I will measure the patient's legs to determine what size SCD sleeve to use."

"I will measure the patient's legs to determine what size SCD sleeve to use."

2. Which condition is not associated with venous stasis, part of Virchow's triad? A. Pregnancy B. Obesity C. Anxiety D. Immobility

Anxiety

2. When preparing to delegate the application of the SCD to NAP, the nurse must do what first? A. Ask the NAP to demonstrate the proper application of the SCD. B. Assess the patient's lower extremities for signs and symptoms of impaired circulation. C. Assess the patient's need for a SCD. D. Explain that the device is not to be removed.

Assess the patient's lower extremities for signs and symptoms of impaired circulation.

5. The nurse has applied the SCD to a postoperative patient. The most appropriate way for the nurse to confirm proper fit is to do what? A. Ask the patient if the device is causing any pain. B. Ensure that two fingers will fit between the patient's leg and the device. C. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the application of the device. D. Ask another nurse to check the patient for proper application of the device.

Ensure that two fingers will fit between the patient's leg and the device.

1. While preparing to apply a SCD for a postoperative patient, the nurse realizes that which assessment observation contraindicates the application of the device? A. Having a low-grade fever B. Taking a prescribed anticoagulant C. Having dermatitis on the legs D. Wearing elastic stockings

Having dermatitis on the legs

5. Why might the nurse choose not to apply a pair of prescribed elastic stockings to a patient's legs? A. The patient will have a scheduled bath in a few hours. B. The patient says they are too tight. C. The patient's skin is irritated. D. The patient has become fully ambulatory.

Instruct NAP to use a small amount of cornstarch or powder.

4. When preparing to apply elastic stockings, why does the nurse assess for skin discoloration? A. To identify the potential risk for deep vein thrombosis (DVT) B. To identify improper patient positioning C. To select the proper stocking size D. To determine whether a sequential compression device is needed

The patient's skin is irritated.

1. Why does the nurse remove the patient's elastic stockings at least once per shift? A. To permit the skin to breathe. B. To wash the legs with a disposable bath product. C. To air out the stockings and allow sweat to evaporate. D. To check the skin for irritation or breakdown.

To check the skin for irritation or breakdown.

3. After determining the proper size stocking and assessing the patient's circulatory status, a nurse delegates the application of elastic stockings to nursing assistive personnel (NAP). The nurse discovers that the NAP has been using moisturizer on the patient's legs before applying the stockings. What is the best action by the nurse? A. Explain that moisturizer may cause excessive skin softening, which can lead to skin breakdown. B. Instruct NAP to use a small amount of cornstarch or powder. C. Ask the patient if he or she is allergic to the moisturizer. D. Inspect the patient's skin for color variations.

To check the skin for irritation or breakdown.

3. Why might a sequential compression device (SCD) be applied to the legs of an immobile patient? A. To stimulate circulation in the deep arterial vascular system B. To help prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT) C. To aid peripheral circulation to reduce the risk of skin breakdown D. To assist in passive range-of-motion exercise of the patient's lower extremities

To help prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT)