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.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Elevated levels of LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol are associated with an increased risk of coronary artery disease (CAD). LDL cholesterol is often referred to as "bad" cholesterol because it can contribute to the formation of plaque in the arteries, leading to narrowing and blockage of the arteries supplying the heart. This increases the risk of developing CAD and related complications such as heart attack and stroke.
On the other hand, HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol is often referred to as "good" cholesterol. HDL cholesterol helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream and transport it back to the liver for processing and excretion. Higher levels of HDL cholesterol are associated with a decreased risk of CAD because it helps to prevent the accumulation of cholesterol on artery walls.
Therefore, understanding that increased LDL and decreased HDL levels increase the risk of coronary artery disease demonstrates a good understanding of the significance of cholesterol levels and their impact on cardiovascular health.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The information that the nurse should include in the teaching plan for a client with hypertension who is on alpha blockers and at risk for postural hypotension is: Change positions slowly.
Alpha blockers are a class of medications commonly prescribed for hypertension. One potential side effect of alpha blockers is postural hypotension, which is a sudden drop in blood pressure when changing positions, such as from sitting to standing. To minimize the risk of postural hypotension, it is important for the client to change positions slowly. The nurse should advise the client to take their time when transitioning from lying down, sitting, or standing, allowing their body to adjust and stabilize their blood pressure.
The other options are not appropriate or helpful in managing postural hypotension:
Check blood pressure every day for signs of rebound hypertension: Rebound hypertension refers to a sudden increase in blood pressure that can occur when discontinuing certain antihypertensive medications. It is not directly related to postural hypotension. Regular blood pressure monitoring is important for managing hypertension, but it is not specifically related to postural hypotension or alpha blockers.
Do not become dependent on canes, walkers, or handrails: Assistive devices like canes, walkers, or handrails can provide support and stability for individuals who experience balance issues or are at risk of falls. It is not necessary to discourage their use unless there are specific contraindications or safety concerns.
Eat plenty of salty food to prevent hypotension: Increasing salt intake is generally not recommended for individuals with hypertension or those at risk of postural hypotension. A high-sodium diet can contribute to elevated blood pressure and is generally discouraged. The nurse should instead encourage a balanced diet that includes appropriate sodium intake based on the client's healthcare provider's recommendations.
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