Which of the following does the nurse recognize is common in peripheral venous insufficiency?
Intermittent claudication
Brownish discoloration to the legs
Weak or absent pedal pulses
Unequal peripheral pulses between extremities
The Correct Answer is B
A. Intermittent claudication:
Intermittent claudication is more commonly associated with peripheral arterial insufficiency rather than venous insufficiency. It is caused by inadequate blood flow to the muscles during activity, resulting in cramping or pain that typically resolves with rest.
B. Brownish discoloration to the legs:
Brownish discoloration to the legs, often referred to as hemosiderin staining, is a common finding in peripheral venous insufficiency. It occurs due to the breakdown of red blood cells and the deposition of hemosiderin in the tissues, especially around the ankles.
C. Weak or absent pedal pulses:
Weak or absent pedal pulses are more indicative of peripheral arterial insufficiency rather than venous insufficiency. Peripheral arterial disease can result in decreased blood flow to the extremities, leading to diminished pulses.
D. Unequal peripheral pulses between extremities:
Unequal peripheral pulses between extremities are also more suggestive of arterial insufficiency. Conditions such as atherosclerosis or arterial embolism can cause variations in pulses between different limbs.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Intake and output:
Intake and output refer to monitoring the amount of fluids a person consumes (intake) and eliminates (output) through urine, feces, and other means. While tracking fluid intake and output is important, it may not provide a direct indication of excess fluid retention.
B. Pitting pedal edema:
Pitting pedal edema is swelling in the lower extremities, particularly the ankles and feet, that leaves an indentation (pit) when pressure is applied. This can be a sign of fluid retention but may not always be the earliest or most reliable indicator.
C. Crackles in the bases of the lungs:
Crackles or rales in the bases of the lungs can be indicative of pulmonary congestion, which may occur due to fluid accumulation. However, crackles alone may not always be specific to fluid overload and can be present in other respiratory conditions.
D. Daily weights:
Daily weights are a critical and sensitive measure for assessing fluid balance. Sudden weight gain, especially over a short period, can be a strong indicator of fluid retention. Monitoring weight on a daily basis helps to detect changes early, allowing for prompt intervention.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. The development of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Explanation: The signs and symptoms described, including crackles, orthopnea, S3 heart sound, cough with pink, frothy sputum, and low pulse oximetry, are more indicative of heart failure than COPD.
B. The development of left-sided heart failure
Explanation: This is the correct answer. The signs and symptoms, such as crackles, orthopnea, and cough with pink, frothy sputum, are characteristic of left-sided heart failure. The S3 heart sound is often associated with increased ventricular filling pressures.
C. The development of right-sided heart failure
Explanation: The presented signs and symptoms are more consistent with left-sided heart failure. Right-sided heart failure is often associated with peripheral edema, hepatomegaly, and jugular venous distension.
D. The development of cor pulmonale
Explanation: Cor pulmonale is typically associated with right-sided heart failure due to chronic lung disease. The signs and symptoms described are more indicative of left-sided heart failure.
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