The nurse is assessing a client diagnosed with peripheral vascular disease. The client is obese, has a 30-year history of cigarette smoking, and works as a contractor

Question

Which of the following should the nurse instruct the client about the diagnosis? 1. Nicotine primarily affects coronary arteries and the lungs.
2. The client's occupation is a major risk factor.
3. Nicotine is a vasoconstrictor.
4. Obesity is a factor in cardiovascular disease but not peripheral vascular disease.

Answer 1

3. Nicotine is a vasoconstrictor.

Rationale:
The vasoconstrictive properties of nicotine will worsen the client's peripheral vascular disease (PVD) by further decreasing peripheral blood flow. One of the most important parts of treatment is the cessation of cigarette smoking. The client's occupation is not a risk factor related to PVD. Obesity is a risk factor for both cardiovascular as well as PVD; however, the nurse should focus on smoking cessation as a first priority with this client.