Health Promotion and Maintenance Q 45
A nurse is providing discharge information to a patient with peripheral vascular disease. Which of the following information should be included in the instructions?
A. Walk barefoot whenever possible.
B. Use a heating pad to keep feet warm.
C. Avoid crossing the legs.
D. Use antibacterial ointment to treat skin lesions at risk of infection.
Correct Answer: C. Avoid crossing the legs.
Patients with peripheral vascular disease should avoid crossing the legs because this can impede blood flow. PVD, also known as arteriosclerosis obliterans, is primarily the result of atherosclerosis. The atheroma consists of a core of cholesterol joined to proteins with a fibrous intravascular covering. The atherosclerotic process may gradually progress to complete occlusion of medium-sized and large arteries. The disease typically is segmental, with significant variation from patient to patient.
Option A: Walking barefoot is not advised, as foot protection is important to avoid the trauma that may lead to serious infection.
Option B: Heating pads can cause injury, which can also increase the risk of infection.
Option D: Skin lesions at risk for infection should be examined and treated by a physician.