Question

A patient with infective endocarditis develops sudden left leg pain

with pallor, paresthesia, and a loss of peripheral pulses. The nurse's
initial action should be to
a. elevate the leg to promote venous return.
b. start anticoagulant therapy with IV heparin.
c. notify the physician of the change in peripheral perfusion.
d. place the bed in reverse Trendelenburg to promote perfusion.

Answer 1

The nurse's initial action should be to notify the physician of the change in peripheral perfusion.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse's initial action should be to c. notify the physician of the change in peripheral perfusion. The sudden left leg pain with pallor, paresthesia, and loss of peripheral pulses indicate a serious problem with the patient's circulation. The nurse should immediately report these symptoms to the physician to ensure prompt evaluation and intervention.