19. Which assessment finding should indicate to a nurse that a client has progression of intermittent claudication?
19. Which assessment finding should indicate to a nurse that a client has progression of intermittent claudication?
. The distance a client can walk before leg pain starts.
. Presence of pedal edema in the legs after sitting 20 minutes.
. Changes in strength of peripheral pulses in the affected leg.
. Changes in skin temperature and color of the feet.
Test-Taking Tip
The term "intermittent" is a hint that the problem starts and stops—start walking, pain develops, stop walking.
Content Area: Adult Health, Vascular; Integrated Process: Nursing Process, Analysis; Cognitive Level: Application; Client Need/Subneed: Physiological Integrity/Physiological Adaptation/Pathophysiology
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Answer 1 is correct because intermittent claudication occurs with peripheral vascular disease and inadequate blood flow to the tissues. As the disease progresses, the pain will occur sooner. Answer 2 is incorrect because pedal edema is swelling from venous stasis—not pain associated with activity. Answer 3 is incorrect because peripheral vascular disease will affect peripheral pulses, but the question is looking for the development of pain. Answer 4 is incorrect because inadequate arterial blood flow will affect the color and temperature, but the more rapid development of pain with walking is the accurate response.