(^20) Medical-Surgical Nursing Demystified
- Atherectomy: A catheter containing a grinding tool is inserted into the
affected artery and is used to grind plaque from the artery wall. - Embolectomy: Surgical removal of a blood clot from the affected artery.
- Thromboendarterectomy: Surgical removal of atherosclerotic tissue from the
affected artery. - Laser angioplasty: A laser-tipped catheter is inserted into the affected artery
to remove the blockage. - Stent: A metal mesh tube is inserted into the affected artery to keep the
artery open. - Amputation: Surgical removal of the affected limb that contains gangrene
caused by low blood flow or complete blockage of blood to the affected limb. - Administer antiplatelets medication to enhance blood flow to the lower ex-
tremities. This helps to get blood through the vessels and alleviates symptoms.- penoxifylline
- cilostazol
- aspirin
- clopidogrel
- dipyridamole
- ticlopidine
NURSING DIAGNOSES
- Fear
- Ineffective tissue perfusion
- Risk for injury
NURSING INTERVENTION
- Monitor most distal pulse to assure circulation exists.
- Compare bilateral pulses.
- Monitor temperature, color of affected area indicating tissue perfusion.
- Support hose.
- Check capillary refill.
- Administer anticoagulant (such as heparin, warfarin) as directed.
- Administer pain medication as directed.