A nurse is educating a client about risk factors for peripheral vascular diseases. The client asks about the role of age in developing these conditions. The nurse explains that as individuals age, the risk of peripheral vascular diseases:

A) This choice is incorrect because mild incisional pain is common after peripheral artery bypass surgery and may be managed with prescribed pain medications. However, severe or worsening pain should be reported to the healthcare provider.

B) This choice is incorrect because mild swelling in the feet is a common post-operative finding after peripheral artery bypass surgery and may resolve with time. However, excessive or sudden swelling should be reported to the healthcare provider.

C) This choice is correct. Pallor (pale color) and coolness of the affected foot may indicate reduced blood flow to the extremity, which could be a sign of a complication such as graft occlusion or clot formation. These signs should be reported immediately for prompt evaluation and intervention.

D) This choice is incorrect because tingling sensation in the legs is common after surgery and may be related to changes in blood flow or nerve irritation. It is not typically a sign that requires immediate reporting unless it is severe or accompanied by other concerning symptoms.

A) This choice is incorrect because asthma is not directly associated with an increased risk of atherosclerosis or peripheral vascular disease. Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that affects the airways, not the blood vessels.

B) This choice is incorrect because osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease and is not directly linked to an increased risk of atherosclerosis or peripheral vascular disease.

C) This choice is incorrect because while hypothyroidism can impact cardiovascular health, it is not a primary risk factor for atherosclerosis or peripheral vascular disease. Hypothyroidism can lead to elevated cholesterol levels, but hypercholesterolemia is the specific condition related to increased cholesterol levels and atherosclerosis.

D) This choice is correct. Hypercholesterolemia, characterized by high levels of cholesterol in the blood, is a significant risk factor for atherosclerosis, which is the buildup of plaque in the arterial walls. Atherosclerosis is a common cause of peripheral vascular disease, leading to reduced blood flow to the extremities and various cardiovascular complications.