A nurse is assessing a client who has chronic venous insufficiency. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
Dependent rubor
Thick, deformed toenails
Hair loss
Edema
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A: Dependent rubor
Dependent rubor is a reddish discoloration of the skin that occurs when the leg is in a dependent position (hanging down). This condition is typically associated with arterial insufficiency rather than chronic venous insufficiency. Arterial insufficiency occurs when there is inadequate blood flow through the arteries, leading to symptoms such as pain, cramping, and changes in skin color. Dependent rubor is a sign of poor arterial circulation and is not commonly seen in venous insufficiency.
Choice B: Thick, deformed toenails
Thick, deformed toenails can be a sign of fungal infections or other conditions affecting the nails, but they are not specifically indicative of chronic venous insufficiency. While individuals with chronic venous insufficiency may have poor circulation that can contribute to nail problems, this symptom is not a primary or common finding associated with the condition. Instead, it is more often related to other underlying health issues.
Choice C: Hair loss
Hair loss on the legs can occur due to various reasons, including poor circulation. However, it is more commonly associated with arterial insufficiency rather than chronic venous insufficiency. In arterial insufficiency, the reduced blood flow can lead to hair loss, shiny skin, and other changes in the lower extremities. Chronic venous insufficiency primarily affects the veins and leads to symptoms such as swelling, varicose veins, and skin changes.
Choice D: Edema
Edema, or swelling, is a hallmark symptom of chronic venous insufficiency. This condition occurs when the veins in the legs are unable to effectively return blood to the heart, leading to blood pooling in the lower extremities. The increased pressure in the veins causes fluid to leak into the surrounding tissues, resulting in swelling. Edema is often more pronounced at the end of the day or after prolonged periods of standing or sitting. Managing edema is a key aspect of treating chronic venous insufficiency, and it often involves the use of compression stockings, elevation of the legs, and other measures to improve venous return.

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Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A: Hypophosphatemia
Hypophosphatemia, or low phosphate levels, is not typically associated with prerenal acute kidney injury (AKI). Prerenal AKI is primarily related to decreased blood flow to the kidneys, which does not directly affect phosphate levels. Hypophosphatemia is more commonly seen in conditions such as refeeding syndrome, chronic alcoholism, and certain endocrine disorders.
Choice B: Hyperkalemia
Hyperkalemia, or elevated potassium levels, is a common electrolyte imbalance in prerenal acute kidney injury (AKI). When kidney function is impaired, the kidneys are less able to excrete potassium, leading to its accumulation in the blood. This can result in dangerous cardiac arrhythmias and requires prompt management. Hyperkalemia is often seen in various types of AKI, including prerenal, intrinsic, and postrenal causes.
Choice C: Hypercalcemia
Hypercalcemia, or high calcium levels, is not typically associated with prerenal AKI. In fact, AKI can sometimes lead to hypocalcemia (low calcium levels) due to impaired kidney function affecting calcium and phosphate metabolism. Hypercalcemia is more commonly associated with conditions such as hyperparathyroidism, malignancies, and certain medications.
Choice D: Hypernatremia
Hypernatremia, or high sodium levels, is also not a typical finding in prerenal AKI. Prerenal AKI is usually characterized by volume depletion, which can lead to hyponatremia (low sodium levels) due to the body’s attempt to retain water and maintain blood pressure. Hypernatremia is more commonly seen in conditions involving excessive water loss or inadequate water intake.

Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Family history of cardiac disease is a non-modifiable risk factor. This means it cannot be changed or controlled through lifestyle or behavioral modifications. A family history of heart disease increases an individual’s risk, but it is not something that can be altered.
Choice B reason:
Increasing age is another non-modifiable risk factor. As people age, their risk for cardiovascular disease naturally increases. This is due to the cumulative effects of aging on the cardiovascular system, which cannot be changed.
Choice C reason:
The diagnosis of diabetes mellitus is a complex risk factor. While the presence of diabetes itself is not modifiable, the management of diabetes through lifestyle changes, medication, and diet can significantly reduce cardiovascular risk. However, the condition itself remains a non-modifiable risk factor.
Choice D reason:
Cigarette smoking is a modifiable risk factor. This means that individuals can reduce their risk of cardiovascular disease by quitting smoking. Smoking cessation has been shown to significantly lower the risk of heart disease and improve overall cardiovascular health.