A nurse is providing care for a client who has the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH). Which of the following findings is consistent with a diagnosis of SIADH?

Choice A Reason:

Decreasing activity is not recommended for managing peripheral venous disease. Regular physical activity, such as walking, helps improve blood circulation and can reduce symptoms. Inactivity can lead to worsening of the condition and increase the risk of complications.

Choice B Reason:

Massaging the legs frequently is not typically recommended for preventing fluid buildup in peripheral venous disease. Instead, compression therapy, such as wearing compression stockings, is more effective in managing symptoms and preventing fluid accumulation.

Choice C Reason:

Keeping the legs in a dependent position (hanging down) can worsen symptoms of peripheral venous disease. Elevating the legs above heart level helps reduce swelling and improve blood flow, which is beneficial for managing the condition.

Choice D Reason:

Inspecting the legs daily for changes in color, size, and temperature is crucial for managing peripheral venous disease. This practice helps in early detection of complications such as infections, ulcers, or worsening of the condition, allowing for timely medical intervention.

Choice A Reason:

Swollen and enlarged veins, also known as varicose veins, are a common manifestation of peripheral venous disease (PVD). This condition occurs when the valves in the veins become weak or damaged, leading to blood pooling and increased pressure within the veins. This results in the veins becoming enlarged, twisted, and visible under the skin1. Varicose veins can cause discomfort, pain, and a heavy feeling in the legs. They are often exacerbated by prolonged standing or sitting and can be a cosmetic concern as well.

Choice B Reason:

Loss of pigmentation over the shin area is not typically associated with peripheral venous disease. This symptom is more commonly seen in conditions such as chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), where prolonged venous hypertension leads to skin changes, including hyperpigmentation and lipodermatosclerosis. However, it is not a primary manifestation of PVD itself.

Choice C Reason:

A shiny appearance to the lower extremities is more commonly associated with peripheral arterial disease (PAD) rather than peripheral venous disease. In PAD, reduced blood flow to the extremities can cause the skin to become thin, shiny, and hairless. This is due to the lack of oxygen and nutrients reaching the skin and underlying tissues. In contrast, PVD primarily affects the veins and does not typically cause these skin changes.

Choice D Reason:

Diminished hair growth on the lower extremities is another symptom more commonly associated with peripheral arterial disease (PAD). In PAD, the reduced blood flow to the extremities can lead to hair loss, as the hair follicles do not receive adequate oxygen and nutrients. Peripheral venous disease, on the other hand, does not usually cause hair loss. Instead, it is characterized by symptoms related to venous insufficiency, such as varicose veins, swelling, and skin changes.