Terms
A form of arteriosclerosis in which deposits of fat and fibrin obstruct and harden the arteries.
Atherosclerosis
a type of radiograph that can evaluate arterial obstruction in the leg
MRI
Assess vitals, strength and pulses of extremities, cap refill, hair growth, skin temp and wounds
Nursing physical examination
Maintain a healthy weight, regular exercise prevent chronic illness
Prevention of PVD
is a disorder of inadequate venous return over a prolonged period. It is a long-term condition that occurs because of a vein blockage or valve leakage in the leg veins, making it difficult for blood to return to the heart.
Chronic venous insufficiency
Segmental Pressure Measurements
elevate the extremeties, promote exercise, avoid heating pads and water bottles, encourage position changes
Promotion of tissue perfusion
Wear shoes, wear socks and do not go barefoot, inspect legs and feet each day
Prevent accidents that occur to the feet
venous blood collects and stagnates in the lower leg
Venous Stasis
Using a treadmill provides functional assessment of limitations. In PVD, pain and pressure at the ankle may decline even further with exercise, confirming the diagnosis.
Stress Testing
This causes edema that worsens with standing, shiny hairless skin on legs, and recurrent ulcerations
Manifestations of CVI
The decreased sensation and skin breakdown that is common during PVD can cause what condition? Teach patients with PVD how to assess their skin for breakdown and other injuries and how to perform proper foot and leg care.
Gangrene {or amputation}
a cramping or aching pain in the calves of the legs, the thighs, and the buttocks that occurs with a predictable level of activity
Intermittent claudication
uses sound waves reflected off moving RBCs within a vessel to evaluate blood flow. The impulses may be translated into an audible signal or a graphic waveform. With significant PVD, the waveform becomes progressively flatter as the transducer is moved distally along the affected vessel.
Doppler Ultrasound
Keep extremeties warm, teach stress reduction techniques, assess pain q 4 hrs.
Manage pain from PVD
Do not cross legs, do not garters, don't swim in cold water
Improve blood supply to extremeties
A burning sensation that occurs during inactivity and increases with elevation of the leg
Rest Pain
evaluates oxygenation of tissues
Transcutaneous oximetry
Provide meticulous skin care, with skin remaining clean and dry, Provide heal protectors and prevent shearing
Maintain skin integrity
Encourage activity