The nurse is taking health history for a client who reports pain in his lower left leg and foot when walking. The pain is relieved with rest, and the nurse observes the left leg is hairless and slightly edematous. The nurse recognizes this as which medical diagnosis or health problem?
Coronary artery disease (CAD)
Arterial embolus
Raynaud disease
Intermittent claudication
The Correct Answer is D
A. Coronary artery disease (CAD):
Coronary artery disease primarily affects the blood vessels supplying the heart muscle. Symptoms often include chest pain (angina) rather than pain in the lower extremities. The symptoms described in the scenario are not characteristic of CAD.
B. Arterial embolus:
An arterial embolus is a blood clot or debris that travels through the bloodstream and can block an artery. While it can cause decreased blood flow and pain, the presentation in the lower left leg and foot with relief of pain at rest is more suggestive of peripheral arterial disease (PAD) or intermittent claudication rather than an acute arterial embolus.
C. Raynaud disease:
Raynaud's disease is characterized by episodes of reduced blood flow to the extremities, usually triggered by cold or stress. It typically involves color changes (white, blue, red) in the fingers or toes. The symptoms described, including pain in the lower leg and foot during walking, are not typical of Raynaud's disease.
D. Intermittent claudication:
Intermittent claudication is a symptom associated with peripheral arterial disease (PAD). It involves pain or cramping in the legs during physical activity, such as walking, due to reduced blood flow to the muscles. Rest typically relieves the pain. The observation of a hairless leg and slight edema suggests potential vascular compromise in the lower extremity, supporting the diagnosis of intermittent claudication.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Kyphosis and clubbing of the fingers:
Kyphosis refers to an excessive forward curvature of the spine, which is not directly related to diminished breath sounds. Clubbing of the fingers is often associated with chronic respiratory conditions, but it is not directly linked to the finding of diminished breath sounds.
B. Dyspnea and hypoxemia:
Dyspnea (shortness of breath) and hypoxemia (low oxygen levels in the blood) are common symptoms in COPD, but diminished breath sounds may indicate an additional concern, such as pneumothorax or other complications.
C. Sepsis and pneumothorax:
Diminished breath sounds can be a sign of pneumothorax, a condition where air accumulates in the pleural space, leading to lung collapse. Sepsis is a risk in clients with COPD due to the potential for respiratory infections. Monitoring for these complications is crucial.

D. Bradypnea and pursed-lip breathing:
Bradypnea (slow breathing) and pursed-lip breathing are coping mechanisms that individuals with COPD may use to manage their breathing difficulties. While they are relevant in the context of COPD, they are not directly associated with the finding of diminished breath sounds.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","D","E"]
Explanation
A. Shortness of breath
Shortness of breath can be a symptom of a myocardial infarction in both men and women.
B. Anxiety
Anxiety can be a symptom in some cases, as individuals may feel a sense of impending doom or anxiety during an MI.
C. Unusual fatigue
Unusual fatigue, especially if it is severe or occurs with exertion, can be a symptom of a myocardial infarction.
D. Back pain
Back pain, particularly between the shoulder blades, can be a symptom of a myocardial infarction in women.
E. Chest pain
Chest pain or discomfort is a classic symptom of a myocardial infarction. While women may experience chest pain, they are also more likely than men to have atypical symptoms.
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