The nurse is providing care for a client recently diagnosed with peripheral arterial occlusive disease (PAD). What assessment finding is most consistent with this diagnosis?
Visible clubbing of the fingers and toes
Unequal peripheral pulses between extremities
Reddened extremities with muscle atrophy
Loss of hair on the distal extremities
The Correct Answer is D
A. Visible clubbing of the fingers and toes
Clubbing is a condition characterized by changes in the shape and appearance of the fingers and toes. It involves enlargement of the fingertips and the nails becoming curved and rounded. Clubbing is not typically associated with peripheral arterial occlusive disease (PAD). It is more commonly seen in conditions such as chronic respiratory or cardiovascular diseases.
B. Unequal peripheral pulses between extremities
Unequal peripheral pulses can be indicative of vascular abnormalities. However, in PAD, the characteristic finding is diminished or absent pulses rather than unequal pulses between extremities. Other conditions, such as arterial embolism or thrombosis, may present with unequal pulses.
C. Reddened extremities with muscle atrophy
Reddened extremities and muscle atrophy are not typical findings in PAD. These symptoms are more characteristic of conditions associated with chronic inflammation or compromised venous circulation, such as chronic venous insufficiency or venous stasis.
D. Loss of hair on the distal extremities
Loss of hair on the distal extremities, particularly on the lower legs and feet, is a common finding in PAD. It results from reduced blood flow and oxygen supply to the hair follicles in the affected areas.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["C","D","E"]
Explanation
A. Limit physical activity
Limiting physical activity is not a primary goal in heart failure care. In fact, promoting appropriate and monitored physical activity is often part of the overall management plan. Exercise, when tailored to the client's condition, can improve functional status and quality of life.
B. Prevent endocarditis
While preventing endocarditis is important for individuals with certain cardiac conditions, it is not a primary goal in the care of heart failure. The focus is typically on optimizing cardiac function and managing heart failure symptoms.
C. Relieve the patient’s symptoms
Managing and relieving symptoms, such as dyspnea, fatigue, and fluid retention, are crucial goals in heart failure care. This includes optimizing medication management and other therapeutic interventions.
D. Extend survival
While heart failure is a chronic condition, the goal is to optimize treatment to improve the client's prognosis and overall survival. This involves the use of evidence-based therapies to address the underlying causes and contributing factors.
E. Improve functional status
Enhancing the client's ability to perform activities of daily living and improving functional capacity are important goals. This can involve a combination of medications, lifestyle modifications, and rehabilitation.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","D"]
Explanation
A. Normal sinus rhythm that becomes sinus tachycardia
Sinus tachycardia can be an indication of increased sympathetic activity in response to decreased cardiac output. It may suggest the heart's compensatory response to maintain adequate perfusion.
B. Onset of a cough with pink, frothy sputum
Pink, frothy sputum is a classic sign of pulmonary edema, which can occur in the setting of worsening heart failure. It indicates the presence of blood-tinged fluid in the alveoli.
C. Presence of dyspnea at rest
Dyspnea at rest suggests that the client is experiencing difficulty breathing even without physical exertion. This can be indicative of more severe heart failure.
D. Falls asleep when not disturbed
Falling asleep when not disturbed may indicate fatigue or exhaustion, which is common in individuals with heart failure. However, it is not a direct indicator of worsening heart failure and can be influenced by various factors.
E. Urine drainage is increased in amount
Increased urine output can be a sign of diuretic therapy or an attempt by the body to compensate for fluid overload. However, it is essential to consider other factors such as renal function and medication effects.
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