In assessing 70-year-old Juan Garcia, he nurse finds the following: BP 140/100 mm Hg; HR 104 and slightly irregular, split sound 2 (52). Which these findings can be explained by expected hemodynamic changes related to age?

a. Incorrect

Ischemia caused by a complete blockage of an artery supplying the left leg would typically result in constant pain, even at rest. The fact that the pain disappears after resting for a few minutes suggests that the blood flow is temporarily restored.
Therefore, this choice is incorrect.

b. Correct

The description of pain in the left calf when exercising, which disappears after resting for a few minutes, is most consistent with claudication caused by partial blockage of an artery supplying the left leg. During exercise, the demand for oxygen-rich blood
increases, but the narrowed or partially blocked artery is unable to supply enough blood, leading to ischemia and resulting pain. Resting allows the oxygen supply to catch up, relieving the pain. This is a characteristic feature of claudication, which is commonly associated with peripheral arterial disease (PAD).

c. Incorrect

Claudication is not due to venous abnormalities in the left leg but rather arterial insufficiency. Venous abnormalities may result in symptoms such as swelling,
discoloration, or a heavy, achy sensation, but not the pain associated with exercise and subsequent relief after rest. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.

d. Incorrect

Venous obstruction of the left leg would typically present with different symptoms, such as swelling, discoloration, or pain that worsens with prolonged standing or
sitting. The pattern of pain during exercise and relief after rest is not consistent with venous obstruction. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.

a. Incorrect

While smoking is a risk factor for various health conditions, including cardiovascular diseases, it is not considered the most significant risk factor for the development of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Other factors, such as immobility, surgery, or underlying medical conditions, have a stronger association with DVT. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.

b. Incorrect

Taking anticoagulant medication, such as blood thinners, is actually a preventive measure for the development of DVT rather than a risk factor. Anticoagulants are
commonly prescribed to individuals at high risk of DVT to reduce the likelihood of blood clot formation. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.

c. Incorrect

Rationale: Chemotherapy is associated with an increased risk of blood clot formation, including DVT. However, it is not the most significant risk factor for DVT. Other
factors, such as immobility or underlying medical conditions, may pose a higher risk. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.

d. Correct

Prolonged bed rest or immobility is a well-known and significant risk factor for the development of DVT. When a person remains in the same position for an extended period, blood flow slows down, increasing the risk of clot formation. This risk is particularly high after four days of immobility. Therefore, this choice is correct.