What assessment finding should concern a nurse after a right femoropopliteal bypass graft?

After a right femoropopliteal bypass graft, a cooler foot can indicate potential complications related to reduced blood flow or graft failure. The surgery is designed to improve circulation to the leg by bypassing blocked areas; therefore, any indication that blood flow is not adequate, such as a cooler temperature in the extremity compared to previous assessments, is worrisome. It suggests possible graft obstruction or a problem with the anastomosis that could lead to ischemia in the tissue supplied by that artery.

The other findings—mild swelling, mild pain, and slight redness at the incision site—can be considered within the normal range of postoperative recovery. Mild swelling may occur due to inflammation, while mild pain can be expected post-surgery. Slight redness at the incision site could be part of the healing process, especially if there is no accompanying warmth or discharge, which would indicate infection. The cooler foot, on the other hand, distinctly points to a potentially serious issue requiring immediate reassessment and intervention.