Question

A nurse is caring for a school-age client who has peripheral edema. The nurse should identify that which of the following assessments should be performed to confirm peripheral edema?

A) Assess the client's respiratory rate and oxygen saturation.
B) Perform a capillary refill test on the client's fingertips.
C) Measure the client's blood pressure in both arms.
D) Press the nurse's thumb firmly against the client's shin for 5 seconds and observe for an indentation.

Answer 1

To confirm peripheral edema in a school-age client, the nurse should perform the D option: Press the nurse's thumb firmly against the client's shin for 5 seconds and observe for an indentation.

Step-by-step explanation:

To confirm peripheral edema in a school-age client, the nurse should perform the D option: Press the nurse's thumb firmly against the client's shin for 5 seconds and observe for an indentation.

Peripheral edema is the accumulation of excess water in the tissues, particularly in the soft tissues of the extremities. Pressing the nurse's thumb against the client's shin can help determine if the edema is present in that area. If an indentation or pit remains after the thumb is removed, it is known as pitting edema, which confirms peripheral edema.