Question

The client with peripheral vascular disease is diagnosed with intermittent claudication. Which action by the nurse would help the client to relieve symptoms of intermittent claudication? A. Apply antithrombolytic stockings as ordered B. Encourage the use of a heating pad to the effected leg C. Massage the effected extremity D. Encourage the client to ambulate

Short answer

A) Applying antithrombolytic stockings B) Encouraging the use of a heating pad C) Massaging the affected extremity D) Encouraging the client to ambulate Answer: D) Encouraging the client to ambulate

Step-by-step solution

Understanding The Problem

To solve this problem, we need to understand what intermittent claudication is and how it is related to peripheral vascular disease. Intermittent claudication is a symptom of peripheral artery disease in which individuals experience cramping and pain in their lower limbs during physical activity. The pain is usually caused by insufficient blood flow to the muscles during exercise due to narrowed arteries, and it typically subsides during rest.

Analyzing Option A

Option A suggests applying antithrombolytic stockings as ordered. Antithrombolytic stockings are designed to improve blood circulation in the legs and prevent blood clots. While they may be helpful in preventing further complications in some cases of peripheral vascular disease, they are not specifically designed to relieve symptoms of intermittent claudication.

Analyzing Option B

Option B suggests encouraging the use of a heating pad on the affected leg. Applying heat to the affected limb may temporarily increase blood flow and provide a soothing sensation, but it does not address the root cause of the pain in intermittent claudication, which is the insufficient blood supply to the muscles during activity.

Analyzing Option C

Option C suggests massaging the affected extremity. Although massage may provide temporary relief from pain and muscle tension, it is not a long-term solution for intermittent claudication symptoms. Furthermore, aggressive massage might be contraindicated for patients with peripheral vascular disease, as it may lead to further complications.

Analyzing Option D

Option D suggests encouraging the client to ambulate. Ambulating or walking is a form of physical activity that can help improve blood circulation in the lower limbs and increase the supply of oxygen-rich blood to the muscles. Regular walking exercises, supervised by a healthcare professional, can help alleviate symptoms of intermittent claudication, as it strengthens the muscles and improves functional capacity over time.

Conclusion

Based on our analysis, option D (encouraging the client to ambulate) is the most appropriate action for the nurse to take to help relieve symptoms of intermittent claudication in a client with peripheral vascular disease, as it addresses the underlying cause of the pain and has potential long-term benefits.