In addition to obtaining the patient's blood pressure, pulse, and temperature during pre-treatment evaluation, what should the nurse also check for?

In the context of pre-treatment evaluation, checking for peripheral edema is crucial because it can indicate the patient's fluid status and overall cardiovascular health. Peripheral edema refers to swelling in the limbs due to the accumulation of fluids, which can result from various conditions, including heart failure, renal issues, or even medication effects. Assessing for peripheral edema allows the nurse to evaluate the patient's risk for complications during treatment, particularly in dialysis or fluid management scenarios.

Monitoring for peripheral edema is essential to ensure that the patient's fluid balance is well managed, particularly in patients with conditions that affect kidney function or fluid overload. Identifying any signs of swelling early can prompt further evaluation or adjustments in treatment plans to prevent more severe complications. Thus, this assessment is a crucial part of the comprehensive pre-treatment evaluation.