The nurse is assessing a client diagnosed with peripheral arterial disease (PAD). The client reports leg pain and cramping after walking a few blocks, which is relieved when the client stops and rests. The nurse documents that the client is experiencing which clinical manifestation?
Intermittent claudication
Neuropathy
Deep vein thrombosis
Venous insufficiency
The Correct Answer is A
A) Intermittent claudication: This term describes the leg pain and cramping that occurs during physical activity, such as walking, and is relieved by rest. It is a classic symptom of peripheral arterial disease (PAD) and results from insufficient blood flow to the muscles due to narrowed or blocked arteries. The client's description aligns perfectly with this definition.
B) Neuropathy: While neuropathy can cause leg pain, it typically presents differently, often with sensations like tingling, numbness, or burning rather than cramping during activity. Neuropathy does not specifically correlate with the pattern of pain relief upon resting, which is characteristic of intermittent claudication.
C) Deep vein thrombosis (DVT): DVT generally presents with symptoms like swelling, warmth, and tenderness in the affected leg, rather than cramping pain that is related to activity. The pain associated with DVT is not typically relieved by rest, making this option inconsistent with the client’s symptoms.
D) Venous insufficiency: This condition is characterized by symptoms such as swelling, varicosities, and skin changes, primarily in the lower extremities. Pain related to venous insufficiency tends to occur after prolonged standing or sitting and is not typically relieved by rest in the same way as intermittent claudication. Therefore, this option does not accurately describe the client’s experience.
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View Related questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Ventricular tachycardia: Ventricular tachycardia is characterized by a rapid heart rate exceeding 100 bpm, typically arising from abnormal ventricular activity. In this case, the heart rate is 59 bpm, which does not support this interpretation. Additionally, ventricular tachycardia usually presents with wide QRS complexes and no discernible P waves, neither of which is true in this scenario.
B) Sinus tachycardia: Sinus tachycardia is defined by a heart rate exceeding 100 bpm originating from the sinoatrial (SA) node, with a regular rhythm and normal P waves. The heart rate of 59 bpm in this client is too low for a diagnosis of sinus tachycardia, making this option incorrect.
C) Sinus bradycardia: Sinus bradycardia occurs when the heart rate is less than 60 bpm, with a regular rhythm and a normal PR interval and QRS duration. The provided data shows a heart rate of 59 bpm, a regular rhythm, one P wave for every QRS complex, a PR interval of 0.20 seconds, and a QRS duration of 0.10 seconds, which aligns perfectly with the criteria for sinus bradycardia.
D) Normal sinus rhythm: Normal sinus rhythm typically presents with a heart rate of 60-100 bpm, a regular rhythm, and appropriate P waves for each QRS complex. Given the heart rate of 59 bpm, this does not meet the criteria for normal sinus rhythm, as it falls below the acceptable range.
Correct Answer is ["A","D","F"]
Explanation
A) Smoking cessation: Quitting smoking is one of the most critical interventions for clients with peripheral arterial disease (PAD). Smoking contributes to vascular damage and worsens arterial circulation, so cessation can significantly slow disease progression and improve overall cardiovascular health.
B) Wear compression stockings: While compression stockings may be helpful for venous conditions, they are generally not recommended for clients with PAD. In fact, they can impair arterial flow, so this intervention should not be included in the teaching plan.
C) Use a heating pad directly on the legs: Using a heating pad directly on the legs is unsafe for clients with PAD, as it can lead to burns or injuries due to impaired sensation in the extremities. Additionally, excessive heat can exacerbate circulation issues.
D) Exercising will help increase circulation: Regular exercise is beneficial for clients with PAD. Supervised exercise programs, such as walking, can improve circulation and enhance functional capacity, helping to manage symptoms and slow disease progression.
E) Soak feet in hot water daily: Soaking feet in hot water can pose risks, particularly for individuals with PAD, as they may have reduced sensation and are at higher risk for burns or injuries. This practice should not be recommended.
F) Decrease saturated fats in daily diet: Reducing saturated fats in the diet can help improve overall cardiovascular health and lower cholesterol levels, which is beneficial for clients with PAD. A heart-healthy diet can help limit disease progression and improve circulation.