Study Guide for Fundamentals of Nursing Care: Concepts, Connections & Skills - Physical Assessment Related

Review Study Guide for Fundamentals of Nursing Care: Concepts, Connections & Skills - Physical Assessment related questions and content

During a focused assessment of a patient's circulatory system, you were unable to palpate the left pedal pulse although the right pedal pulse was strong. What should be your first action?

  • A. Notify the health-care provider
  • B. Check the blood pressure in the left leg
  • C. Palpate for the left posterior tibialis pulse
  • D. Obtain a Doppler
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Using a Doppler is the first step to assess an absent pedal pulse, as it can detect blood flow that is not palpable.