(1 point):. Which of the following cardiovascular complications should the nurse assess for in a patient with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)?

Choice A rationale:

Pressure ulcers are not typically related to blood pooling in superficial veins due to prolonged standing. Pressure ulcers are usually caused by sustained pressure on the skin and underlying tissues, leading to tissue damage.

Choice B rationale:

Varicose veins can develop when blood pools in the superficial veins, often due to prolonged standing or increased pressure on the veins. This can lead to the dilation and twisting of the veins, resulting in varicose veins. Therefore, if a person stands for long periods of time, the nurse should assess for the development of varicose veins.

Choice C rationale:

Emboli and thromboangitis obliterans (Buerger's disease) are not directly related to blood pooling in superficial veins due to prolonged standing. Emboli are blood clots or other materials that travel through the bloodstream and can potentially block vessels in various parts of the body. Thromboangitis obliterans is a rare inflammatory condition that primarily affects the blood vessels of the extremities.

Choice A rationale:

Aneurysms Aneurysms are not typically associated with chronic orthostatic hypotension. Aneurysms involve the weakening and ballooning of blood vessels, which can lead to life-threatening complications like rupture or dissection. However, they are not directly related to orthostatic hypotension.

Choice B rationale:

Heart failure Heart failure is a condition in which the heart cannot pump blood effectively, leading to symptoms like fluid retention, shortness of breath, and fatigue. While heart failure can cause orthostatic hypotension, it is not a complication that an older adult patient with chronic orthostatic hypotension should be primarily monitored for. Instead, the focus should be on addressing orthostatic intolerance and the risk of falls.

Choice C rationale:

Falls Chronic orthostatic hypotension is characterized by a drop in blood pressure upon standing, which can lead to dizziness, fainting, and falls. Monitoring for falls is crucial in older adults with this condition to prevent injuries and complications associated with falling. This is the correct choice because it directly addresses the potential risks associated with orthostatic hypotension.

Choice D rationale:

Atherosclerosis Atherosclerosis is a condition characterized by the buildup of fatty deposits in the arteries, which can lead to reduced blood flow to various organs. While atherosclerosis can contribute to cardiovascular issues, it is not the primary concern for an older adult with chronic orthostatic hypotension. The immediate concern is the risk of falls and related injuries.