A nurse is assessing a client who has peripheral venous disease. Which of the following findings should the nurse recognize as a manifestation of venous disease?
Swollen and enlarged veins.
Loss of pigmentation over the shin area.
Shiny appearance to the lower extremities.
Diminished hair growth on the lower extremities.
The Correct Answer is A
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
“Blood flow is altered due to restricted stretching of the ventricles, impairing the heart’s ability to contract” is not accurate in the context of peripheral arterial disease (PAD). PAD primarily affects the arteries outside the heart, particularly those supplying the legs and feet. It is caused by atherosclerosis, which leads to the narrowing and hardening of the arteries, reducing blood flow to the extremities. The statement about restricted stretching of the ventricles and impaired heart contraction is more relevant to conditions like heart failure or cardiomyopathy.
Choice B reason:
“Blood flow is altered due to increased pressure in the arteries” is a more accurate description of PAD. In PAD, the buildup of fatty deposits (plaques) in the arterial walls leads to increased resistance and pressure within the arteries. This condition reduces the flow of oxygenated blood to the limbs, causing symptoms such as pain, cramping, and fatigue, especially during physical activity. Managing PAD involves lifestyle changes, medications, and sometimes surgical interventions to improve blood flow and reduce symptoms.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
A history of myocardial infarction (heart attack) and the need for stent placement are significant risk factors for developing atrial flutter. Atrial flutter is often associated with structural heart disease, including coronary artery disease, which can lead to myocardial infarction. The damage to the heart muscle and the changes in the heart’s electrical system following a myocardial infarction can predispose a person to atrial flutter.
Choice B Reason:
While a family history of atrial flutter can indicate a genetic predisposition to arrhythmias, it is not as strong a risk factor as having a history of myocardial infarction and stent placement. Genetic factors can play a role, but they are typically less influential compared to direct cardiac events.
Choice C Reason:
Recovering from an illness that caused vomiting and diarrhea is not a direct risk factor for atrial flutter. These conditions can lead to electrolyte imbalances, which might temporarily affect heart rhythm, but they do not typically cause atrial flutter.
Choice D Reason:
Increased stress can contribute to various health issues, including heart problems, but it is not a primary risk factor for atrial flutter. Chronic stress can exacerbate existing heart conditions, but it is not as significant a risk factor as a history of myocardial infarction.
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