The nurse is assessing a client who may have arterial insufficiency in the left lower leg. Which of the following are consistent with this diagnosis? Standard Text: Select all that apply

Question

1. Left dorsalis pedis pulse +1, right dorsalis pedis pulse +3
2. Skin is cool, tight, and shiny
3. When left leg is dependent, erythema is present
4. When left leg is elevated, pallor is present
5. Client complains of increased pain during rest periods

Answer 1

1,2,3,4
Rationale 1: Left dorsalis pedis pulse +1, right dorsalis pedis pulse +3. The client with arterial insufficiency may have diminished pulses. The pulse in the left foot is difficult to palpate, while the pulse in the right foot is strong and easy to palpate.
Rationale 2: Skin is cool, tight, and shiny. This finding is consistent with arterial insufficiency. The affected limb will feel cool. The skin may look "tight" and appear shiny. These findings indicate that the limb is not receiving an adequate arterial supply of oxygenated blood.
Rationale 3: When left leg is dependent, erythema is present. This finding is consistent with arterial insufficiency. When in a dependent position, the affected limbs will become reddened.
Rationale 4: When left leg is elevated, pallor is present. This finding is consistent with arterial insufficiency. When elevated, affected limbs will become pale.
Rationale 5: Client complains of increased pain during rest periods. The client with arterial insufficiency is more likely to complain of pain during exercise of the leg. The pain decreases or is absent with rest.