The nurse is assessing a woman who is pregnant at 27 weeks' gestation. The patient is concerned about the recent emergence of varicose veins on the backs of her calves. What is the nurse's best response?
A) Facilitate a referral to a vascular surgeon.
B) Assess the patient's ankle-brachial index (ABI) and perform Doppler ultrasound testing.
C) Encourage the patient to increase her activity level.
D) Teach the patient that circulatory changes during pregnancy frequently cause varicose veins.
Ans: D
Feedback:
Pregnancy may cause varicosities because of hormonal effects related to decreased venous outflow, increased pressure by the gravid uterus, and increased blood volume. In most cases, no intervention or referral is necessary. This finding is not an indication for ABI assessment and increased activity will not likely resolve the problem.
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