A nurse is caring for a patient with peripheral arterial disease. Which factor will the nurse identify as the highest risk?
Sedentary lifestyle
Diabetes
Cigarette smoking
Hyperlipidemia
The Correct Answer is C
A. Sedentary lifestyle: While a sedentary lifestyle can contribute to the development and progression of peripheral arterial disease (PAD), it is not the highest risk factor compared to other options listed. Regular physical activity is important for cardiovascular health and can help reduce the risk of PAD, but other risk factors may have a greater impact on disease development.
B. Diabetes: Diabetes is a significant risk factor for PAD, especially when poorly controlled. High blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels and nerves, leading to atherosclerosis and reduced blood flow to the limbs. However, compared to cigarette smoking, diabetes may not be considered the highest risk factor for PAD.
C. Cigarette smoking: Cigarette smoking is the highest risk factor for peripheral arterial disease (PAD). Tobacco smoke contains numerous harmful chemicals that damage blood vessels and promote atherosclerosis, narrowing the arteries and reducing blood flow to the limbs. Smoking not only increases the risk of developing PAD but also accelerates its progression and worsens symptoms. Quitting smoking is one of the most important interventions for preventing and managing PAD.
D. Hyperlipidemia: Elevated levels of cholesterol and triglycerides (hyperlipidemia) contribute to the development of atherosclerosis, which is a key mechanism underlying peripheral arterial disease (PAD). However, while hyperlipidemia is a significant risk factor, it may not be considered the highest risk factor compared to cigarette smoking. Controlling cholesterol levels through lifestyle changes and medications is essential for managing PAD and reducing cardiovascular risk.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. A 29-year-old female who reports drinking a glass of wine with dinner: While excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to hypertension, moderate alcohol intake, such as drinking a glass of wine with dinner, is not typically a significant risk factor for hypertension in the absence of other contributing factors. Therefore, this individual may not be considered at high risk for hypertension solely based on this information.
B. A 35-year-old male who works 50 hours a week: While chronic stress from long work hours can potentially contribute to hypertension, working 50 hours a week alone may not be sufficient to significantly increase the risk of hypertension, especially in the absence of other significant risk factors. Therefore, this individual may not be considered at high risk for hypertension solely based on this information.
C. A 50-year-old male who reports smoking 2 packs of cigarettes a day: Smoking is a significant risk factor for hypertension. Nicotine in cigarettes can cause blood vessels to narrow, leading to increased blood pressure. Smoking also damages blood vessel walls, making them more susceptible to plaque buildup and narrowing, further increasing the risk of hypertension. Therefore, this individual is at high risk for hypertension due to their smoking habit.
D. A 30-year-old female with a family history of diabetes mellitus: While a family history of diabetes mellitus may increase the risk of developing hypertension due to shared risk factors such as obesity and unhealthy lifestyle habits, it is not as directly associated with hypertension as smoking. Additionally, the individual's age and family history alone may not be sufficient to determine a significant risk for hypertension without additional information about lifestyle and other risk factors.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Systolic BP between 120 and 160 mmHg:
While this range represents a moderate level of blood pressure control, it may not be optimal for preventing organ damage in individuals with primary hypertension. Systolic blood pressure (SBP) between 120 and 160 mmHg is considered elevated and may still increase the risk of cardiovascular complications over time. While it's not dangerously high, it's not within the recommended range for preventing organ damage associated with hypertension.
B. Diastolic BP between 70- and 99-mm Hg:
This range for diastolic blood pressure (DBP) is relatively broad and encompasses normal to elevated levels. While DBP between 70 and 99 mmHg is generally considered within the normal to prehypertensive range, it may not fully reflect the target range recommended for preventing organ damage in individuals with hypertension. The upper limit of 99 mmHg is higher than the optimal target range for preventing hypertension-related complications.
C. Diastolic BP between 60- and 79-mm Hg:
This range represents the optimal target for diastolic blood pressure (DBP) in individuals with hypertension. Keeping DBP between 60 and 79 mmHg is associated with reduced risk of cardiovascular events and end-organ damage. It aligns with current guidelines for blood pressure management and reflects successful teaching regarding the recommended range needed to prevent organ damage in patients with primary hypertension.
D. Systolic blood pressure between 90 to 120 mm Hg:
This range represents the optimal target for systolic blood pressure (SBP) in individuals with hypertension. Maintaining SBP between 90 and 120 mmHg is associated with the lowest risk of cardiovascular events and complications. It aligns with current guidelines for blood pressure management and reflects successful teaching regarding the recommended range needed to prevent organ damage in patients with primary hypertension.
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