RN Exam Practice
Reduction of Risk PotentialQuestion 1566 of 2368

The nurse cannot palpate a client's dorsalis pedis pulse. Which action should the nurse take next?

  1. Document the pulse as normal
  2. Use a Doppler device to check perfusion of the limb
  3. Palpate the pulse harder
  4. Check the pulse in the other foot only
Show answer

Correct answer: Use a Doppler device to check perfusion of the limb

A Doppler device lets the nurse hear the pulse and verify perfusion when it cannot be palpated.

Source: Nursing Skills, 2nd edition (Open RN, Chippewa Valley Technical College, 2023), General Survey: PULSE FORCE. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.

Practice the topic "Reduction of Risk Potential"

Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026