The nurse is assessing an ulcer on a client's lower extremity, which is likely the result of either venous or arterial insufficiency. Which assessment technique should the nurse use to differentiate the pathophysiology causing the ulcer?

Compare the skin turgor of the client's upper and lower leg.

Observe the specific location and appearance of the ulceration.

Note any change in the color of the ulcer when the leg is moved.

Measure the degree of joint range of motion in the extremity.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

A. Skin turgor assesses skin elasticity and hydration, which is more indicative of general hydration status rather than specific types of insufficiency. While poor skin turgor might be observed in various conditions, it does not specifically differentiate between venous and arterial ulcers.
B. The location and appearance of the ulcer can provide significant clues about its etiology. Venous ulcers often appear on the lower legs, particularly around the medial malleolus (inside of the ankle), and tend to have irregular, shallow, and often wet or weepy edges.
C. Changes in color upon movement can provide insight into the type of insufficiency. For arterial ulcers, the leg may appear pale or blanched when elevated and may develop a reddish or purple color when lowered due to poor blood flow.
D. Measuring joint range of motion assesses flexibility and mobility rather than the type of ulcer. While joint mobility issues can be associated with various conditions, including those affecting the vascular system, it does not directly help in distinguishing between venous and arterial insufficiency ulcers.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. Varicosities, or varicose veins, are dilated veins that appear on the skin and are often associated with venous insufficiency. While they can be symptomatic and require management, they typically do not constitute an immediate medical emergency. Varicosities are generally managed with lifestyle changes, compression therapy, or medical procedures, but they are not usually life-threatening.
B. Lack of hair growth on the lower legs can indicate poor circulation, commonly seen in conditions like peripheral arterial disease (PAD). While it is a concerning finding and suggests potential arterial insufficiency, it is not usually an immediate emergency.
C. A Stage 2 pressure injury is characterized by partial-thickness loss of dermis, presenting as a shallow, open ulcer with a pink wound bed. While it requires attention to prevent progression and manage the wound, it is not an immediate emergency compared to other findings that suggest acute complications.

D. Right calf swelling and tenderness are critical findings that could indicate a deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which is a serious condition where a blood clot forms in a deep vein, usually in the leg. DVT can lead to life-threatening complications such as pulmonary embolism if the clot dislodges and travels to the lungs.

A. Urine dipstick test. B. Rapid strep test. C. Nitazine pH strip. D. Fingerstick glucose.

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. A urine dipstick test is a preliminary screening tool that can quickly provide information about the presence of glucose, protein, nitrites, and leukocytes in the urine. In the context of uncontrolled diabetes with symptoms of painful urination, this test is useful for identifying signs of a urinary tract infection (UTI), which is a common complication in diabetic patients.
B. A rapid strep test is used to diagnose streptococcal infections, particularly strep throat. It is not relevant to the symptoms of frequent and painful urination and does not help in assessing diabetic complications or urinary issues.

C. Nitrazine pH strips are primarily used to assess amniotic fluid in pregnant women to determine if labor has started. They are not used for diagnosing urinary tract infections or evaluating symptoms related to diabetes.
D. A fingerstick glucose test measures blood glucose levels and is useful for assessing the client's current glycemic control. While monitoring blood glucose levels is important for managing diabetes, it does not directly address the issue of painful urination or the presence of a urinary tract infection.

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The nurse is assessing an ulcer on a client's lower extremity, which is likely the result of either venous or arterial insufficiency. Which assessment technique should the nurse use to differentiate the pathophysiology causing the ulcer?

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