Question

The client is being treated for Buerger's disease. Another name for Buerger's disease is: A. Thrombophlebitis B. Coronary thrombosis C. Thromboangiitis obliterans D. Arteritis

Short answer

a) Hemophilia b) Crohn's disease c) Thromboangiitis obliterans d) Vasculitis Answer: c) Thromboangiitis obliterans

Step-by-step solution

Understand the terms

Research or use previous knowledge to recognize the alternative name for Buerger's disease among the options given. Step 2: Select the correct answer

Choose the right option

Based on your understanding, choose the correct alternative name for Buerger's disease: Thromboangiitis obliterans (Option C).

Key concepts

Thromboangiitis obliterans

Thromboangiitis obliterans, also known as Buerger's disease, is a rare disease of the arteries and veins in the arms and legs. In this disease, blood vessels become inflamed, swell and can become blocked with blood clots (thrombi).

This condition usually first appears in the small and medium-sized arteries and can become severe enough to restrict blood flow to the extremities, which can lead to pain, especially when walking. It is associated with a strong relationship to tobacco use, and smoking cessation is vital to slow the progression of the disease.

Recognizing Symptoms

Patients with thromboangiitis obliterans may exhibit symptoms like extremity pain, claudication, ulcers, or gangrene in severe cases. It is often confused with atherosclerosis, but Buerger's disease tends to affect younger individuals, predominantly males.

Risk Factors and Complications

Apart from smoking, factors such as autoimmune responses and genetics may play a role in its etiology. Complications can include skin infections, sores, and in extreme cases, amputation of the affected limb due to necrosis.

Nursing Care of Buerger's Disease

Caring for a patient with Buerger's disease requires a thorough nursing assessment to document symptoms and the effectiveness of interventions.

Lifestyle Changes

Nurses play a pivotal role in educating patients about the importance of lifestyle changes, particularly smoking cessation, which is the most critical factor in managing the disease. They also need to stress the importance of proper foot care and avoiding cold temperatures, which can exacerbate symptoms.

Medication Management

Monitoring and managing medications to improve blood flow—such as vasodilators or antiplatelet agents—are also key nursing responsibilities. Symptom management, particularly pain relief, requires careful assessment and pain management strategies.

Nurses may also coordinate with other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care, which could include physical therapy or referral to smoking cessation programs. Regular follow-up is crucial to prevent disease progression and complications.

NCLEX-RN Exam Preparation

Preparing for the NCLEX-RN exam involves understanding and being able to apply a wide range of medical knowledge, including the management of conditions like thromboangiitis obliterans.

Study Strategies

Effective study strategies include breaking down complex topics into smaller, manageable concepts, using resources such as NCLEX review books, courses, and practice questions to reinforce learning.

Understanding the Format

Understanding the format of the exam and familiarizing oneself with the types of questions that may be asked about various diseases is important. As for Buerger's disease, being able to recognize its alternative name, thromboangiitis obliterans, and other related clinical features is an excellent example of the application of knowledge that could be tested on the exam.

Consistent study, practicing with a wide variety of question types, and taking timed practice tests can help build confidence and improve test-taking skills, leading to success on the NCLEX-RN exam.