The nurse is performing a health screening of a 37-year-old female client. Which factor(s) would alert the nurse that this client is at greatest risk for developing a stroke?

A. While it's true that ulcers can be a serious complication of PAD and require careful management, exercise is generally encouraged in patients with PAD as long as it is safe and supervised. Patients should consult their healthcare provider about appropriate exercise, but not exercising altogether can worsen their condition.
B. Buying shoes in the afternoon is advisable because feet can swell throughout the day. It helps ensure a better fit and reduces the risk of blisters or skin breakdown, which is particularly important for clients with PAD.
C. This statement is generally correct, as dangling the legs can help improve circulation in some cases. Clients with PAD often experience relief when their legs are in a dependent position, as it may help increase blood flow to the extremities. However, they should also be encouraged to avoid prolonged periods of sitting.
D. This statement may indicate a misunderstanding. Compression stockings are typically used for venous issues rather than arterial diseases like PAD. In patients with PAD, wearing compression stockings may not be appropriate and could potentially compromise arterial blood flow.

A. Using adaptive equipment suggests they are finding ways to maintain independence and complete activities of daily living (ADLs) despite any physical or cognitive limitations. This is a positive sign of adaptation.
B. Difficulty using modified feeding utensils suggests that the client is struggling to adapt to the changes caused by the stroke. If they cannot use these utensils effectively, it indicates a challenge in managing their eating independently, which is not a sign of successful adaptation.
C. While emotional responses like depression and irritability are common after a stroke, experiencing these feelings frequently can indicate difficulty in coping with the changes. This does not reflect successful adaptation; rather, it suggests that the client may be struggling emotionally and psychologically with their new circumstances.
D. While frustration can be a normal response to challenges after a stroke, particularly in the context of regaining independence, getting angry at family members may indicate difficulty in coping with the changes or an inability to manage frustration.