Microvascular complications are degenerative changes occurring in the small vessels such as:
Retinopathy
Stroke
Atherosclerosis
Coronary disease
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: Retinopathy is a common microvascular complication, particularly in individuals with diabetes. It occurs when high blood sugar levels cause damage to the small blood vessels in the retina, leading to vision problems and, in severe cases, blindness. Diabetic retinopathy is a well-known example of how microvascular complications can affect the eye.
Choice B reason: Stroke, on the other hand, is not typically categorized as a microvascular complication. Strokes occur when the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, preventing brain tissue from getting enough oxygen and nutrients. This can be due to a blockage in larger blood vessels or bleeding. While small vessel disease can contribute to stroke risk, it is primarily associated with larger vascular issues, thus not fitting the classic definition of microvascular complications.
Choice C reason: Atherosclerosis is a condition characterized by the buildup of fats, cholesterol, and other substances in and on the artery walls, which can lead to restricted blood flow. This process can affect both large and small blood vessels, and while it contributes to various cardiovascular diseases, it is not exclusively considered a microvascular complication. Microvascular complications refer more specifically to the tiny blood vessels, like those in the eyes and kidneys.
Choice D reason: Coronary disease, also known as coronary artery disease (CAD), involves the large arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle. It is characterized by the narrowing or blockage of these arteries due to atherosclerosis. While CAD is a significant cardiovascular condition, it does not fall under the category of microvascular complications, which are more commonly associated with the very small blood vessels affected by conditions like diabetes.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Infection in the nerve fibers is not a primary cause of diabetic neuropathy. While infections can affect nerves, diabetic neuropathy is primarily due to vascular complications and chronic hyperglycemia, not infections.
Choice B reason: Inability to provide continuous glucose to the brain and spinal cord is not a cause of neuropathy. The brain and spinal cord typically have a continuous supply of glucose. Neuropathy in diabetes results from the damage to peripheral nerves due to prolonged high blood glucose levels and subsequent vascular complications.
Choice C reason: Excessive glucose exposure to the brain and spinal cord is not directly related to neuropathy. The neuropathic complications in diabetes are due to the damage of peripheral nerves caused by hyperglycemia and vascular insufficiency, rather than glucose affecting the central nervous system.
Choice D reason: Thickening and ischemia of the vessels that supply the nerve fibers are the primary causes of diabetic neuropathy. Chronic hyperglycemia leads to damage of the small blood vessels (vasa nervorum) that supply the nerves, resulting in reduced blood flow and oxygen supply to the nerves. This ischemia causes nerve degeneration, delayed nerve conduction, and impaired sensory function, which are characteristic of diabetic neuropathy.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: While white blood cells (WBC) are essential for fighting infections, increased WBCs in the blood is not the reason why a minor injury can cause major complications in individuals with diabetes. In fact, diabetes can impair the function of WBCs, making it harder to fight infections.
Choice B reason: Edema, or swelling, can occur in individuals with diabetes, especially in the lower extremities. However, it is not the primary reason why minor injuries can lead to severe complications. Edema can contribute to discomfort and further complications, but it is not the root cause.
Choice C reason: Increased blood flow and oxygen delivery to tissues would generally be beneficial for healing. However, individuals with diabetes often have impaired blood flow, not increased blood flow. This impairment can hinder the healing process and lead to complications.
Choice D reason: The major reason why a minor injury can cause significant complications in individuals with diabetes is due to decreased blood flow to the tissues. Diabetes can cause damage to blood vessels and nerves (peripheral neuropathy), leading to poor circulation and a reduced ability to sense injuries. This decreased blood flow can prevent adequate delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the tissues, leading to slow healing, increased risk of infection, and in severe cases, gangrene (tissue death). Without proper blood flow, even minor injuries can become serious and may require medical intervention, including possible amputation to prevent the spread of infection.
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