A client with peripheral vascular disease (PAD) is experiencing intermittent claudication and reports difficulty walking. What should the nurse encourage the client to do to improve exercise tolerance?
Avoiding all physical activity to prevent leg pain.
Walking until the pain becomes severe, then stopping.
Engaging in a daily high-intensity exercise regimen.
Gradually increasing walking distance over time.
The Correct Answer is D
A) This choice is incorrect because avoiding all physical activity can lead to deconditioning and worsen exercise tolerance over time. Regular exercise is beneficial for individuals with peripheral vascular disease (PAD) to improve blood flow and manage symptoms.
B) This choice is incorrect because waiting until the pain becomes severe and then stopping (known as the "stop-and-rest" method) is not recommended for individuals with PAD. This approach can lead to inadequate exercise and may not provide the benefits of regular walking.
C) This choice is incorrect because engaging in a daily high-intensity exercise regimen is not appropriate for individuals with PAD, especially if they experience intermittent claudication. High-intensity exercise can exacerbate leg pain and may not be well-tolerated.
D) This choice is correct. Gradually increasing walking distance over time is a recommended approach for individuals with PAD to improve exercise tolerance and manage intermittent claudication. The goal is to push the limits of walking distance without causing severe pain, allowing the individual to gradually build endurance and improve blood flow.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) This choice is correct. Intermittent claudication is a hallmark symptom of peripheral arterial disease (PAD). It refers to pain, cramping, or weakness in the legs that occurs during physical activity and is relieved by rest. This symptom is due to reduced blood flow and oxygen supply to the muscles during exercise.
B) This choice is incorrect because deep vein thrombosis (DVT) typically presents with symptoms such as swelling, warmth, and tenderness in the affected leg, but it does not cause pain that is relieved by rest.
C) This choice is incorrect because Raynaud's phenomenon primarily affects the fingers and toes, causing them to turn white, then blue, and finally red due to blood vessel spasms in response to cold or stress. It is not associated with pain in the legs during walking.
D) This choice is incorrect because chronic venous insufficiency involves symptoms such as leg swelling, skin changes, and the development of venous ulcers, but it is not characterized by pain that occurs with walking and is relieved by rest.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) This choice is correct. Smoking is the most significant risk factor for peripheral artery disease (PAD). Smoking damages blood vessels, promotes atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in arteries), and narrows blood vessels, leading to reduced blood flow to the extremities.
B) This choice is incorrect because while a sedentary lifestyle can be a contributing factor to peripheral vascular diseases, it is not the most common cause of PAD.
C) This choice is incorrect because while family history can play a role in the development of PAD, it is not the most common cause. Other modifiable risk factors, such as smoking and diabetes, have a more significant impact on PAD.
D) This choice is incorrect because high dietary sodium intake is not a direct cause of PAD. However, reducing sodium intake can benefit overall cardiovascular health, especially for individuals with hypertension.
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