A nurse is assessing a client with intermittent claudication. What client statement supports this information?
"My feet feel like I have pins and needles."
"When I stand or sit too long, my feet swell."
"My legs get a painful cramp when I walk over 30 minutes."
"I get short of breath when I climb a lot of stairs.”
The Correct Answer is C
The client statement that supports the information of intermittent claudication is: "My legs get a painful cramp when I walk over 30 minutes.": Intermittent claudication is a symptom of peripheral artery disease (PAD) characterized by pain, cramping, or fatigue in the muscles of the lower extremities, typically the calves, thighs, or buttocks. This pain is usually triggered by physical activity, such as walking, and is relieved with rest. The pain is caused by inadequate blood flow and oxygen supply to the muscles due to narrowed or blocked arteries.
The other client statements do not specifically indicate intermittent claudication:
"My feet feel like I have pins and needles": This sensation of pins and needles is often associated with peripheral neuropathy, which is a condition involving nerve damage and does not directly relate to intermittent claudication.
"When I stand or sit too long, my feet swell": This statement suggests the possibility of venous insufficiency rather than intermittent claudication. Venous insufficiency involves impaired blood return from the legs to the heart and may result in swelling, aching, or heaviness in the legs.
"I get short of breath when I climb a lot of stairs": This symptom is more indicative of cardiovascular or respiratory issues, such as heart or lung disease, rather than intermittent claudication. It suggests that the client may experience exercise intolerance due to cardiopulmonary limitations.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic medication commonly prescribed for hypertension. It works by increasing urine output, which helps to reduce fluid volume and lower blood pressure. Taking the medication in the morning is beneficial because the increased urine production during the day can help prevent nighttime disruptions due to frequent urination.
Let's go through the other statements and explain why they are not accurate:
"I will not take this medicine when my blood pressure is okay":
This statement indicates a misunderstanding about the purpose of hydrochlorothiazide. It is important to take prescribed medications consistently, even when blood pressure readings are within the normal range, as they are intended to help maintain blood pressure control.
"I will check blood pressure in both arms and legs before taking the drug":
Checking blood pressure in both arms and legs is not directly related to hydrochlorothiazide use. Blood pressure should be monitored regularly, but it is not necessary to perform these measurements specifically before taking the medication.
"I will decrease potassium foods such as bananas in my diet":
Hydrochlorothiazide can cause potassium loss as a side effect. However, reducing potassium-rich foods without healthcare provider guidance may not be appropriate. It is important for the client to discuss dietary adjustments and potassium supplementation with their healthcare provider if needed.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The most important finding to report to the health care provider would be the serum potassium level of 3.0 mEq. This is an extremely low potassium level (normal range is typically 3.5-5.0 mEq/L), which can indicate a potentially life-threatening condition called hypokalemia. Furosemide (Lasix) is a diuretic medication that can cause potassium loss in the urine, and a low potassium level can lead to serious cardiac and muscle abnormalities. It is crucial to report this finding promptly to the health care provider for appropriate intervention and monitoring.
Blood glucose level of 175 mg/dL: While an elevated blood glucose level can be a concern, especially for individuals with diabetes, it is not the most critical finding in this situation. The client's primary concern is hypertension, and the administration of IV furosemide is aimed at managing blood pressure. The elevated blood glucose level should still be addressed and monitored, but it is not as urgent as the low potassium level.
Orthostatic systolic BP decrease of 12 mm Hg: Orthostatic hypotension refers to a significant decrease in blood pressure upon standing up. While it is important to assess and manage orthostatic changes, a decrease of 12 mm Hg in systolic blood pressure alone may not be considered clinically significant. It could be a normal response for some individuals. However, if the client experiences symptoms such as dizziness or lightheadedness upon standing, further evaluation may be necessary. Nonetheless, it is not as urgent as the low potassium level.
Current blood pressure reading of 166/94 mm Hg: While this blood pressure reading indicates hypertension, it is not the most critical finding to report in this situation. The nurse is preparing to administer furosemide (Lasix), which is a medication commonly used to treat hypertension. It is expected that the blood pressure will be high before administering the medication. The goal is to monitor the blood pressure after the administration to assess the effectiveness of the medication.
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