A nurse performs Homans maneuver by flexing the knee and sharply dorsiflexing the foot. What response indicates a positive Homans sign?

Choice A rationale
Stable angina is characterized by chest pain that occurs with exertion and is relieved by rest. If a patient with angina pectoris is experiencing chest pain at rest and needs to take three nitroglycerin pills to relieve the pain, this is not typical of stable angina.
Choice B rationale
A full-blown acute myocardial infarction (MI), or heart attack, typically presents with severe chest pain, shortness of breath, and other symptoms. While chest pain at rest could be a symptom of an MI, other symptoms would likely be present.
Choice C rationale
Unstable angina is characterized by chest pain that occurs at rest, is severe and prolonged, and is not relieved by nitroglycerin. Therefore, a patient with angina pectoris who is experiencing chest pain at rest and needs to take three nitroglycerin pills to relieve the pain could be experiencing unstable angina.
Choice D rationale
Pulmonary embolus, a blockage in one of the pulmonary arteries in the lungs, typically presents with sudden-onset shortness of breath, chest pain that may become worse upon deep breathing or coughing, and other symptoms. Chest pain at rest could be a symptom of a pulmonary embolus, but other symptoms would likely be present.

Choice A rationale
Smoking cigarettes can exacerbate the symptoms of Raynaud’s disease by causing further constriction of the blood vessels. Therefore, a patient who continues to smoke cigarettes may need further education about the management of Raynaud’s disease.
Choice B rationale
Eating bananas twice a day is not typically a concern for patients with Raynaud’s disease.
Choice C rationale
Wearing mittens outside, especially in cold weather, is a recommended strategy for managing Raynaud’s disease. It can help to prevent episodes of Raynaud’s by keeping the hands warm and reducing exposure to cold temperatures.
Choice D rationale
Taking calcium channel blockers is a common treatment for Raynaud’s disease. These medications help to relax and open up the small blood vessels in the hands and feet, reducing the severity and frequency of Raynaud’s episodes.