PAD
what is the primary cause of PAD?
atherosclerosis
what causes peripheral venous disease?
venous valve incompetence
When should patients with heart failure be taught to notify their provider?
weight gain of two pounds in one day or five pounds in a week
What medication class ends in -artan?
ARB's- angiotensin receptor blockers
what vital sign should be checked prior to administering nitroglycerin?
Blood pressure- causes vasodilation so it can cause significant drops in blood pressure
what is the most common symptom of PAD?
claudication- leg pain that occurs with activity, described as cramping and aching; it is relieved with rest
how do compression stockings help patients with peripheral venous disease?
reduce edema in the legs
Which findings are common in a patient with left-sided heart failure?
crackles, shortness of breath, orthopnea, coughing-- because fluid backs up to the lungs
Which organ is most damaged by uncontrolled hypertension?
kidneys
what is coronary artery disease primarily caused by?
how should the legs be positioned for a patient with PAD?
legs dangling to help improve bloodflow to the legs
what symptoms are common with venous insufficiency?
edema, varicose veins, venous ulcers, thickening and hardening of skin
What is the function of Furosemide and what lab value should be monitored closely?
It is a diuretic that helps remove fluid; potassium should be monitored because it causes potassium excretion
Which medication class ends in -pril and how do these medications work?
ACE inhibitors- they work by inhibiting angiotensin, an enzyme that constricts blood vessels- so they cause relaxation and widening of blood vessels
What lab test is most commonly done to evaluate for cardiac muscle damage?
troponin- it is elevated in NSTEMI and STEMI
what test is used to diagnose PAD?
angle-brachial index- measure blood pressure at ankle and divide by blood pressure of upper extremities
Which nursing intervention improves venous return?
elevating legs- will allow more blood to flow away from the legs
What symptoms are common in right-sided heart failure?
edema, jugular vein distension, ascites, weight gain, enlarged liver and spleen
How does amlodipine lower blood pressure?
Blocks calcium channels (calcium channel blocker) which relaxes and widens blood vessels
what symptom describes stable angina?
chest pain with exertion/activity that resolves with rest
why does smoking worsen PAD?
it increases vasoconstriction, further reducing bloodflow to the legs
what skin changes are commonly found in PVD?
brown discoloration to lower legs
It helps detect fluid retention early
what type of medication is spironolactone, and what lab test should be monitored for patients on this medication?
Potassium- sparing diuretic; potassium should be monitored because it may lead to excess potassium retention
how does nitroglycerin relieve angina?
causes dilation of coronary arteries