Lower Extremity Edema Assessment Demonstration #shorts

Summary

This video provides a step-by-step guide on how to properly assess lower extremity edema. The instructor demonstrates the correct technique for pressing firmly on the tibia above the ankle to observe for any indentation or blanching in the skin, which indicates edema. The importance of applying enough pressure for 5-10 seconds is emphasized. The video also discusses how to assess edema along the shin and thigh, noting varying levels of severity, from trace to significant, and how to document these findings accurately. It also invites viewers to learn more about grading edema based on pitting.

Takeaways

• 😀 Firm pressure is necessary when assessing lower extremity edema to properly elicit a response.
• 😀 Press down on the tibia above the patient's ankle for 5-10 seconds to assess edema.
• 😀 After applying pressure, observe the skin for indentation and color change (blanching).
• 😀 The assessment should involve both visual inspection and physical palpation to detect any indentation.
• 😀 A trace of edema is visible when a slight indentation remains after releasing pressure.
• 😀 Compare both sides of the body to assess the symmetry and extent of edema.
• 😀 If significant edema is present, assess further up the shin, thigh, or groin to measure its extent.
• 😀 Edema grading can be done in stages (e.g., +1 to +3), with +3 being the most severe.
• 😀 Different locations along the leg may have different levels of edema, which should be documented accordingly.
• 😀 Edema assessment helps determine the severity and extent of fluid retention in the lower extremities.

Q & A

What is the purpose of the video?

The video explains how to properly assess lower extremity edema, specifically focusing on how to perform the technique of pressing on the skin to identify indentation.

Why is it important to apply sufficient pressure when assessing edema?

Applying enough pressure ensures that the indentation caused by the edema is clearly visible and measurable, which allows for an accurate assessment of the condition.

Where should you press to assess lower extremity edema?

You should press on the tibia, just above the patient's ankle, to assess for any indentation or changes in skin appearance caused by edema.

How long should you press on the skin to check for edema?

You should press firmly for about five to ten seconds to give the skin enough time to react and show any indentation if edema is present.

What should you observe after releasing the pressure on the skin?

After releasing the pressure, observe whether there is any indentation left on the skin, and check if the skin color changes temporarily (blanching) before returning to normal.

How can you tell if edema is present after performing the test?

If there is an indentation that remains on the skin or if the skin feels softer than usual, it indicates the presence of edema. The indentation should disappear after a brief period if the edema is mild.

What should you do if you find edema on one side of the lower extremity?

You should compare it to the other side by repeating the procedure to assess the severity and extent of the edema. This allows for a proper evaluation of any asymmetry between the legs.

What does it mean if you find significant edema extending further up the leg?

If edema extends higher up the leg, such as reaching the thigh or groin, it indicates more severe edema, and you should document the levels where the edema is present and its severity at each location.

How can you grade the severity of edema?

Edema can be graded based on the depth of the indentation and how quickly it resolves. The grading scale includes terms like 'trace' for minimal edema, and 'plus 1', 'plus 2', and 'plus 3' for increasing severity.

What should you do if the edema is not just limited to the lower leg?

If the edema extends beyond the lower leg, such as to the thigh or groin, you should continue assessing and noting the extent of the edema, using the same five to ten second pressure technique, and document the findings for further clinical evaluation.