A nurse is assessing a client with suspected peripheral vascular disease. Which finding is most concerning and requires immediate intervention?

Swelling and tenderness in the calf

Intermittent claudication during physical activity

Cold, pale, and numb fingers or toes

Ulceration on the lower leg with foul-smelling discharge

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

A) This choice is concerning and may indicate deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Swelling and tenderness in the calf can be a sign of a blood clot, and immediate evaluation is required to prevent potential complications such as a pulmonary embolism. However, it is not as critical as the finding in option D.

B) This choice is concerning and may indicate peripheral artery disease (PAD). Intermittent claudication during physical activity suggests reduced blood flow to the extremities, but it does not require immediate intervention.

C) This choice is concerning and may indicate Raynaud's disease. Raynaud's disease involves the fingers or toes turning white, then blue, and finally red due to blood vessel spasms, but it is not as urgent as the finding in option D.

D) This choice is correct. Ulceration on the lower leg with foul-smelling discharge indicates a severe complication of peripheral vascular disease, possibly related to peripheral artery disease (PAD) or venous insufficiency. Ulcers that have an unpleasant odor and are not healing require immediate intervention to prevent infection and further tissue damage.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A) This choice is correct. Numbness and tingling in the feet are symptoms associated with arterial insufficiency in peripheral vascular disease (PAD). Reduced blood flow to the extremities can lead to sensory changes and discomfort, including numbness and tingling.

B) This choice is incorrect because venous insufficiency is more commonly associated with symptoms such as leg swelling, skin changes, and the development of venous ulcers, but it does not typically cause numbness and tingling in the feet.

C) This choice is incorrect because peripheral nerve compression can cause localized numbness and tingling, but it is not a primary symptom of peripheral vascular disease. Peripheral nerve compression may occur due to various factors, such as nerve impingement or entrapment.

D) This choice is incorrect because systemic inflammation is not a direct cause of numbness and tingling in the feet in peripheral vascular disease. Systemic inflammation can contribute to other conditions, but it is not the primary cause of sensory changes associated with PAD.

A. Elevating the legs above heart level for 15 minutes daily. B. Applying compression bandages to the legs. C. Soaking the legs in hot water to reduce swelling. D. Encouraging long periods of standing to promote circulation.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A) This choice is incorrect because elevating the legs above heart level for only 15 minutes daily may not provide sufficient benefit for managing edema and skin changes in clients with chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). Continuous and prolonged elevation, along with compression therapy, is more effective in reducing swelling.

B) This choice is correct. Applying compression bandages or stockings is a standard intervention for managing edema and skin changes in clients with chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). Compression helps improve venous return and reduce swelling in the lower legs.

C) This choice is incorrect because soaking the legs in hot water is not recommended for clients with chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). Hot water may cause skin irritation and worsen skin changes associated with CVI.

D) This choice is incorrect because encouraging long periods of standing can worsen symptoms in clients with CVI. Prolonged standing increases venous pressure in the legs and can lead to further swelling and discomfort.

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A nurse is assessing a client with suspected peripheral vascular disease. Which finding is most concerning and requires immediate intervention?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A client with peripheral vascular disease (PAD) reports experiencing numbness and tingling in their feet. The nurse should suspect:

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A client with chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) presents with edema and skin changes in the lower legs. What should the nurse include in the plan of care to manage these symptoms?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A nurse is providing education to a client about peripheral vascular diseases. The nurse explains that these diseases primarily affect which body system?

A client with peripheral vascular disease (PAD) is at risk of developing complications related to impaired skin integrity. What should the nurse include in the plan of care to prevent skin breakdown?

A nurse is reviewing the medical history of a client with suspected peripheral vascular disease. Which condition is a significant risk factor for the development of atherosclerosis and peripheral vascular disease?

A nurse is providing education to a client with chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) about self-care strategies. What should the nurse recommend to the client to promote venous return?

A nurse is providing education to a client with peripheral vascular disease (PAD). The nurse should instruct the client to perform which exercise to improve blood flow in the legs?

A nurse is caring for a client with peripheral vascular disease (PAD) who experiences intermittent claudication. What should the nurse encourage the client to do during episodes of leg pain?

A nurse is assessing a client with peripheral vascular disease. Which non-invasive test can the nurse use to assess blood flow in the legs and detect blockages?

A nurse is providing education to a client with peripheral vascular disease (PAD) about lifestyle modifications. Which dietary recommendation should the nurse include in the client's plan of care?