Final answer:
The nurse should conduct a dietary evaluation for the woman with frequent painful leg cramps, as deficiencies in certain minerals can contribute to cramps. Posture evaluation may also be relevant, whereas Goodell's and Hegar's signs are not applicable. The skeletal muscle pump's role in the symptomatic patient mentioned is likely due to the lack of physical activity impairing venous return.
Step-by-step explanation:
When assessing a woman who frequently awakens with painful leg cramps, the nurse should consider a dietary evaluation. Leg cramps can be associated with deficiencies in minerals like magnesium, calcium, or potassium, or dehydration. Therefore, inquiring about the woman's diet and fluid intake could provide insight into potential nutritional deficiencies that might be contributing to her symptoms.
Goodell's sign and Hegar's sign are associated with pregnancy changes in the cervical region and would not be relevant to leg cramps. A posture evaluation might assist in determining if musculoskeletal issues are a factor, particularly if the cramps are related to the patient's daily activities or sleeping positions that affect leg muscle tension.
As for the patient described with swollen feet and ankles, fatigue, and other symptoms, the skeletal muscle pump might be relevant. The skeletal muscle pump is a mechanism by which contracting muscles help return venous blood back to the heart. If the patient is not physically active, the effectiveness of this system can be compromised, contributing to the symptoms described, such as swelling (edema) and the feeling of being 'spaced out,' which can also be a symptom of poor circulation.