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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. "A single elevated blood pressure does not confirm hypertension. A diagnosis of hypertension requires two or more elevated readings taken by your physician before a diagnosis can be made."
This response emphasizes the need for multiple elevated readings for a diagnosis of hypertension. It educates the individual about the diagnostic criteria and encourages them to seek further evaluation from their physician.
B. "We will need to reevaluate your blood pressure because your age places you at high risk for hypertension."
This response might be seen as implying that age alone is a significant factor in determining hypertension, which may not be accurate. While age is a risk factor, the emphasis should be on the need for multiple readings and a physician's evaluation rather than attributing it solely to age.
C. "Hypertension is prevalent among men: it is fortunate we caught this during your routine examination."
This response suggests that the elevated blood pressure is automatically assumed to be hypertension based on gender. It is important to avoid making assumptions and instead focus on the need for proper evaluation and multiple readings for a hypertension diagnosis.
D. "You have no need to worry. Your pressure is probably elevated because you are being tested."
This response dismisses the individual's concerns and attributes the elevated blood pressure solely to the testing situation. While stress or anxiety can influence blood pressure readings, it's essential to address the need for further evaluation and not completely disregard the possibility of hypertension.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. International normalized ratio (INR):
INR is a test used to monitor the effectiveness of anticoagulant therapy, particularly drugs like warfarin. It measures the time it takes for blood to clot. It's not directly related to assessing heart failure but is more associated with monitoring anticoagulation status.
B. Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP):
BNP is a peptide released by the heart in response to increased pressure and volume in the heart, often seen in heart failure. Elevated BNP levels can indicate the presence of heart failure. It's a useful diagnostic marker for heart failure.
C. Troponin:
Troponin is a protein released into the blood when there is damage to the heart muscle, usually during a heart attack. It is not specific to heart failure but is commonly used to diagnose myocardial infarction (heart attack).
D. Creatinine:
Creatinine is a waste product that comes from the normal wear and tear on muscles. While elevated creatinine levels can be seen in conditions affecting kidney function, it's not a direct marker for assessing heart failure. However, kidney function is often evaluated in conjunction with heart failure assessments.
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