A nurse is caring for a client who has a history of peripheral arterial disease and requires education on treatment. Which of the following statements should the nurse utilize for the teaching?

Rationale:

A. Avoidance of caffeine is not specifically indicated for peripheral arterial disease. While caffeine can temporarily constrict blood vessels, it is not a primary treatment for this condition.

B. Compression stockings can improve blood flow in peripheral arterial disease by providing external pressure to the legs, helping to reduce swelling and improve circulation.

C. Cold compresses may provide temporary relief for pain associated with peripheral arterial disease, but they are not a primary treatment and do not address the underlying circulation issues.

D. Elevating the legs above the heart can sometimes be helpful for improving circulation, but it is not a practical or sustainable treatment for peripheral arterial disease.

Rationale:

A. Clopidogrel is an antiplatelet medication used to prevent blood clots, and it is not associated with orthostatic hypotension.

B. Clonidine is an antihypertensive medication that can cause orthostatic hypotension, particularly when changing positions from lying to standing.

C. Hydralazine is an antihypertensive medication that can cause orthostatic hypotension, particularly at higher doses.

D. Nifedipine, a calcium channel blocker, is generally associated with a risk of hypotension; however, it is not specifically indicated as a common cause of orthostatic hypotension.

E. Gemfibrozil is a lipid-lowering medication and is not associated with orthostatic hypotension.