The nurse is caring for a patient who underwent an angioplasty of the iliac artery. In order to assess for bleeding, the nurse should
Explanation
• After an angioplasty of the iliac artery, internal bleeding may develop and accumulate in the retroperitoneal space. Measuring abdominal girth is the best way to assess blood accumulation.
• Incorrect: Auscultating the iliac artery and palpating for pulses are done to confirm arterial patency.
• Incorrect: Mild abdominal pain is expected.