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 correct. As individuals age, the risk of peripheral vascular diseases increases due to several factors, including the weakening of arterial walls and the accumulation of plaque in the arteries (atherosclerosis). Aging is associated with changes in blood vessels, such as decreased elasticity and increased stiffness, which can contribute to the development of peripheral vascular diseases.

B) This choice is incorrect because while physical fitness can influence the risk of cardiovascular diseases, age-related changes in blood vessels can still increase the risk of peripheral vascular diseases, even in physically fit individuals.

C) This choice is incorrect because the risk of peripheral vascular diseases does not remain stable with no significant changes. Aging is associated with various physiological changes that can impact cardiovascular health and increase the risk of peripheral vascular diseases.

D) This choice is incorrect because while gender and ethnicity can influence the risk of certain conditions, age is a significant independent risk factor for the development of peripheral vascular diseases. The age-related changes in blood vessels apply to individuals of all genders and ethnicities.

Questions

A) This choice is incorrect because while smoking can be a risk factor for deep vein thrombosis (DVT), diabetes and hypertension are not significant risk factors for this condition. DVT is more commonly associated with prolonged immobility, surgery, or trauma.

B) This choice is incorrect because Raynaud's disease is not directly related to smoking, diabetes, or hypertension. Raynaud's disease involves blood vessel spasms and is more commonly associated with exposure to cold temperatures or stress.

C) This choice is correct. Peripheral artery disease (PAD) involves the narrowing or blockage of arteries in the extremities, leading to reduced blood flow. Smoking, diabetes, and hypertension are significant risk factors for the development of PAD. Smoking damages blood vessels, diabetes increases the risk of atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in arteries), and hypertension can lead to arterial damage and narrowing.

D) This choice is incorrect because varicose veins are typically caused by weakened or damaged valves in the veins, leading to the pooling of blood and the development of enlarged and twisted veins. Smoking, diabetes, and hypertension are not primary risk factors for varicose veins.