3: Examination Flashcards
Describe the technique of assessing pallor with elevation?
Position the pt in supine and note the color of the soles of the feet. Elevate the legs above 45 degrees for one minute and observe color
What is a positive pallor with elevation test indicative of?
Ischemia
How long does it take to see pallor with elevation if there is moderate arterial insufficiency?
30-45 seconds
How long does it take to see pallor with elevation if there is mild arterial insufficiency?
45-60 seconds
How long does it take to see pallor with elevation if there is no arterial insufficiency?
Greater than one minute
Describe the rubor of dependency test
Upon completion of the pallor of elevation test, bring the pt into sitting and observe the color of the feet
If the feet turn bright red during the rubor of dependency test, what is it indicative of?
Ischemia - causes significant vasodilation
How fast should normal color return during rubor of dependency if there is normal blood flow?
15-20 seconds
How will a pt respond to the rubor of dependency test if they have severe arterial insufficiency?
Pallor with elevation in less than 25 seconds that is followed by a bright red appearance
Describe how to assess venous filling time
Observe LE and veins to establish baseline, then elevate LE for 1 minute or until vein collapses. Bring pt to sitting and record time it takes vein to refill
What is considered normal venous filling time?
5-15 seconds
How long will it take for the veins to refill if the pt has arterial insufficiency?
Greater than 20 seconds
If a pt’s venous filling time is greater than 20 seconds, what is it indicative of?
Arterial insufficiency
What is indicated if a pt’s venous filling time is immediate?
Venous insufficiency
Describe how to assess capillary refill
Apply pressure to distal extremity and observe refill
What timeframe is appropriate for capillary refill?
Immediately
How is pitting edema scored?
0-4+ based on rebound time
What is considered to be a 0 on the pitting edema scale?
No pitting observed
What is considered to be a 1+ on the pitting edema scale?
Barely perceptible
What is considered to be a 2+ on the pitting edema scale?
Skin rebound less than 15 seconds
What is considered to be a 3+ on the pitting edema scale?
Skin rebound in 15-30 seconds
What is considered to be a 4+ on the pitting edema scale?
Skin rebound in 30 seconds or more
What two scales can be used to assess pulses?
0-4+ or 0-2