Question

when assessing an adult male who present at the community health clinic with a history of hypertension the nurse notes that he has 2+ pitting edema in both ankles. he also has a history of gastroesophogeal reflux disease and depression. which interventions is most important for the PN to implement?

Answer 1

The most important intervention for a patient with 2+ pitting edema and a history of hypertension is to evaluate the patient's cardiovascular status and manage potential heart complications, alongside employing therapies to enhance circulation and reduce fluid retention.

Step-by-step explanation:

In assessing an adult male with 2+ pitting edema in both ankles and a history of hypertension, gastroesophageal reflux disease, and depression, the nurse must prioritize interventions that can address potential complications associated with these conditions. Edema could be indicative of worsening hypertension or other cardiac issues. Considering the patient's medical history, the most important intervention would likely involve evaluating the patient's cardiovascular status.

Therapy for edema often aims at eliminating the cause, which, in the case of a patient with hypertension, could include heart complications. Thus, interventions would include activities to enhance blood and lymph circulation, such as appropriate exercises, the elevation of the affected limbs, massage, compression, and dietary changes such as decreased salt intake to manage fluid retention.