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 C

Explanation

A) This choice is incorrect because increasing sodium intake can lead to fluid retention and exacerbate swelling, which is counterproductive for clients with peripheral vascular disease (PAD).

B) This choice is incorrect because limiting fluid intake can lead to dehydration and is not typically recommended for individuals with PAD. Adequate hydration is important for overall health and vascular function.

C) This choice is correct. A low-fat and low-cholesterol diet is essential for individuals with peripheral vascular disease (PAD) to reduce the buildup of plaque in the arteries (atherosclerosis) and improve blood flow. Lowering dietary intake of saturated fats and cholesterol helps manage cardiovascular risk factors.

D) This choice is incorrect because consuming high amounts of caffeine can lead to increased heart rate and blood pressure, which may be detrimental for clients with PAD. Moderate caffeine intake is generally recommended.

A. Cardiac catheterization B. Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG) C. Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) D. Pulmonary function test (PFT)

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A) This choice is incorrect because cardiac catheterization is an invasive procedure that involves the insertion of a catheter into the heart chambers or coronary arteries. It is used to assess the heart's structure and function, not blood flow in the legs.

B) This choice is incorrect because an electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG) is a non-invasive test that records the electrical activity of the heart to assess heart rate and rhythm. It is not used to assess blood flow in the legs.

C) This choice is correct. Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) is a non-invasive imaging technique that uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of blood vessels. It can assess blood flow in the legs, identify blockages, and provide valuable information about the vascular status of the extremities.

D) This choice is incorrect because a pulmonary function test (PFT) is a test used to assess lung function and diagnose respiratory conditions. It is not used to assess blood flow in the legs or detect peripheral vascular disease.

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

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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