A client has sequential compression stockings in place. The nurse eval

A client has sequential compression stockings in place. The nurse evaluates that they are imple-mented appropriately by the new staff nurse when the:

1. Initial measurement is made around the client’s calves
2. Intermittent pressure is set at 40 mm Hg
3. Stockings are wrapped directly over the leg from ankle to knee
4. Stockings are removed every hour during application

ANSWER

ANS: 2
Inflation pressures average 40 mm Hg. Initial measurement is made around the largest part of the client’s thigh. A protective stockinette is placed over the client’s leg; then the stocking is wrapped around the leg, starting at the ankle, with the opening over the patella. For optimal re-sults, sequential compression devices (SCDs) or intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) are used as soon as possible and maintained until the client becomes fully ambulatory. Stockings are not removed every hour but should be removed periodically to assess the condition of the client’s skin.