A client with chronic peripheral arterial disease (PAD) asks the nurse why this disease developed. Which explanation by the nurse is most accurate?
"Excess sodium from hypertension causes direct injury to the arteries, reducing blood flow and causing obstruction."
"Excess fats in your diet are stored in the lining of the arteries, causing them to constrict."
"A combination of platelets and fats accumulate, narrowing the artery and reducing blood flow to the extremities."
"Injury to the arteries causes them to spasm, reducing blood flow to the extremities."
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A Reason
While hypertension can contribute to the development of PAD, it does not directly cause fats to deposit in the arteries. Hypertension can damage the arterial walls, making them more susceptible to atherosclerosis, but it is not the primary mechanism of PAD development.
Choice B Reason
Excess fats in the diet can contribute to atherosclerosis, which is the accumulation of plaques in the arterial walls. However, the fats do not simply get stored; they combine with other substances, including calcium and inflammatory cells, to form plaques that can restrict blood flow.
Choice C Reason
This statement is the most accurate. PAD is primarily caused by atherosclerosis, which is the buildup of plaques formed by fats, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances in the blood. These plaques can harden and narrow the arteries, leading to reduced blood flow to the extremities. The process can be exacerbated by factors such as smoking, diabetes, and high cholesterol.
Arterial spasms can occur, but they are not the typical cause of chronic PAD. Spasms are more often associated with conditions like Raynaud's phenomenon or can be a response to stress or cold temperatures. PAD is usually a result of progressive atherosclerosis rather than intermittent spasms.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A Reason
A creatinine level of 0.8 mg/dL falls within the normal range for adults, which is typically 0.6 to 1.2 mg/dL for males and 0.5 to 1.1 mg/dL for females. This indicates normal kidney function and is not a cause for immediate intervention post-operatively.
Choice B Reason
A potassium level of 4.2 mEq/L is within the normal range, which is generally between 3.6 and 5.2 mEq/L. This level indicates a stable electrolyte balance and is not a cause for immediate concern following shoulder replacement surgery.
Choice C Reason
A white blood cell (WBC) count of 9,000 mm³ is within the normal range, which typically spans from 4,500 to 11,000 WBCs per mm³. This suggests there is no active infection or inflammation that requires immediate intervention.
Choice D Reason
A hemoglobin level of 7.1 g/dL is considered low, as the normal range for adult males is generally 13.8 to 17.2 g/dL and for adult females is 12.1 to 15.1 g/dL. Low hemoglobin can indicate anemia, which may be due to blood loss during surgery or other underlying conditions. This requires immediate intervention to address potential oxygenation issues and determine the cause of the anemia.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice a reason:
Increasing fiber intake is crucial for clients with diverticular disease. A high-fiber diet softens the stool and helps it pass more easily, reducing the pressure in the digestive tract. Fresh fruits and vegetables are excellent sources of fiber and other nutrients essential for maintaining a healthy digestive system. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend a dietary fiber intake of 14 grams per 1,000 calories consumed, which equates to 28 grams per day for a 2,000-calorie diet.
Choice b reason:
While avoiding foods high in sugar is generally good advice for overall health, it is not specifically related to the management of diverticular disease. There is no direct link between sugar intake and the symptoms or complications of diverticular disease. However, a diet high in sugar can contribute to obesity, which is a risk factor for the development of diverticulosis.
Choice c reason:
Decreasing fluid intake is not recommended for clients with diverticular disease. In fact, adequate hydration is essential when increasing fiber intake. Fluids help fiber work better by allowing it to absorb water and expand, aiding in easier passage through the intestines.
Choice d reason:
The previous belief that small seeds and nuts should be avoided by individuals with diverticular disease has been debunked. Recent studies have shown that these foods do not increase the risk of complications and are not harmful to individuals with this condition. Therefore, this advice is outdated and no longer considered necessary as part of dietary teaching for diverticular disease.
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