Question

Nurse is planning care for a client who is experiencing chronic lymphedema of the left arm. The nurse plans which of the following:

a) Encourage the client to elevate the affected arm.
b) Apply heat to the affected arm to promote circulation.
c) Instruct the client to perform strenuous exercises.
d) Administer diuretics to reduce fluid retention.

Answer 1

The nurse should plan to elevate the affected arm for a client experiencing chronic lymphedema to promote fluid drainage.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should plan to elevate the affected arm for a client experiencing chronic lymphedema of the left arm. This is because elevation assists with drainage and promotes the movement of fluid out of the tissues.

Applying heat to the affected arm, as mentioned in option b, may actually worsen the condition by increasing blood flow and causing further swelling.

Option c, instructing the client to perform strenuous exercises, should be avoided as it may strain the affected arm and exacerbate the symptoms of lymphedema.

Administering diuretics, as mentioned in option d, may be used in certain cases of edema, but is not typically the first-line approach for managing lymphedema.