1) While completing the past history of a patient's peripheral vascular and lymphatic systems, the nurse is concerned that the patient is at risk for peripheral vascular disorders. What assessment data would cause the nurse to arrive at this conclusion? (Select all that apply.)

A)  Heart attack 5 years ago

B)  Blood pressure 178/90 mm Hg

C)  Currently smokes one pack per day

D)  Coronary artery disease (CAD)

E)  Mother diagnosed with diabetes at age 70

 

ALL of these assessment data caused the nurse to suspect risk for peripheral vascular disorders:

A)  Heart attack 5 years ago

B)  Blood pressure 178/90 mm Hg

C)  Currently smokes one pack per day

D)  Coronary artery disease (CAD)

E)  Mother diagnosed with diabetes at age 70

Step-by-step explanation

Peripheral vascular disease (PVD) is a slow but progressive circulation disorder, affecting any vascular bundles outside of the heart. The legs and feet are most commonly affected.

Risk factors of developing PVD are the following:

• Age older than 50 years old
• History of heart disease such as coronary artery disease (CAD) (same with our patient)
• Previous heart attack (just like our patient who had heart attack 5 years ago)
• History of high blood pressure/ high cholesterol levels (just like our patient wh's BP is 178/90 mmHg)
• Family history of peripheral vascular disease, high blood pressure/ high cholesterol levels
• Family history of diabetes/ history of diabetes (just like our patient above)
• Physical inactivity or sedentary lifestyle
• Smoking (just like our patient, who smokes)
• Obesity/Overweight

In addition, those who smoke or have diabetes have the highest risk of complications from PVD due to the increased risk of impaired blood flow.