How would a nurse best describe the assessment of stasis dermatitis in a patient with peripheral vascular disease (PVD)?
Ulceration on the medial surface of the lower legs.
Brownish skin discoloration on the lower legs.
Edema in the lower legs.
Purple rash on the medial surface of the lower legs.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale
Ulceration on the medial surface of the lower legs is not the best description of stasis dermatitis in a patient with peripheral vascular disease (PVD). While ulcers can occur in severe cases, they are not the primary characteristic of stasis dermatitis.
Choice B rationale
Stasis dermatitis, also known as venous stasis dermatitis, is a skin inflammation that occurs in people with poor circulation. It most often happens in the lower legs because that’s where blood typically collects. When blood pools in the veins of the lower leg, it can cause a variety of symptoms, including a brownish skin discoloration on the lower legs. This discoloration is caused by the leakage of red blood cells into the skin due to increased pressure in the veins.
Choice C rationale
While edema in the lower legs can be a symptom of PVD and may accompany stasis dermatitis, it is not the best description of the condition. Edema is a general symptom that can occur in many conditions and is not specific to stasis dermatitis.
Choice D rationale
A purple rash on the medial surface of the lower legs is not a typical symptom of stasis dermatitis. While the skin may become discolored, it is usually a brownish color rather than purple.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Recurring chest pain can be a symptom of a serious condition such as a heart attack, which can occur if a blood clot forms in a vein deep inside the body, breaks off, and travels to the heart.
This is a potential complication of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and other vascular issues. Therefore, it’s important for the nurse to inquire about recurring chest pain in a patient with a past history of DVT and other vascular issues.
Choice B rationale
A peptic ulcer is a sore that develops on the lining of the stomach, upper small intestine, or lower esophagus. While peptic ulcers can cause discomfort and other symptoms, they are not typically associated with DVT or other vascular issues. Therefore, while it’s always important for the nurse to have a complete understanding of a patient’s health history, inquiring about a peptic ulcer may not be directly relevant to a patient with a past history of DVT and other vascular issues.
Choice C rationale
An aneurysm is a bulge or ballooning in the wall of an artery. Aneurysms can occur in any artery in the body, and they can be life-threatening if they rupture or dissect (tear)3. While aneurysms can be associated with certain vascular diseases, they are not typically associated with DVT3. Therefore, while it’s important for the nurse to be aware of a patient’s complete health history, inquiring about an aneurysm may not be directly relevant to a patient with a past history of DVT.
Choice D rationale
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in the joints. While it can cause a variety of symptoms and complications, it is not typically associated with DVT or other vascular issues. Therefore, while it’s always important for the nurse to have a complete understanding of a patient’s health history, inquiring about rheumatoid arthritis may not be directly relevant to a patient with a past history of DVT and other vascular issues.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Keeping hands warm and wearing gloves when handling cold objects is one of the most effective ways to manage Raynaud’s disease. Cold temperatures can trigger Raynaud’s attacks, which can cause the fingers to turn white, then blue, and feel cold and numb.
Choice B rationale
While avoiding standing for prolonged periods can be beneficial for certain conditions, it is not specifically related to managing Raynaud’s disease.
Choice C rationale
Regular exercise can help improve circulation, which can be beneficial for people with Raynaud’s disease. However, it’s not as crucial as keeping the hands warm.
Choice D rationale
Regularly returning to the clinic for blood pressure checks is not specifically related to managing Raynaud’s disease. While it’s important for individuals with certain conditions, such as hypertension, to regularly monitor their blood pressure, it’s not a key aspect of managing Raynaud’s disease.
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