Concepts and Cases in Nursing Ethics Test Bank Related

Review Concepts and Cases in Nursing Ethics Test Bank related questions and content

What causes brown pigmentation of the lower extremities in clients with venous stasis?

  • A. The necrosis of subcutaneous fat due to tissue hypoxia
  • B. Breakdown of red blood cells in the congested tissues
  • C. Reduced inflammatory and immune response from congested circulation
  • D. Skin atrophy caused by lack of circulation
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The brown pigmentation of the lower extremities in clients with venous stasis is primarily caused by the breakdown of red blood cells in the congested tissues. When there is venous stasis, the blood circulation is impaired, leading to a backup of blood in the lower extremities. This stagnant blood contains hemosiderin, a byproduct of red blood cell breakdown. Over time, the hemosiderin deposits in the tissues, causing the characteristic brown discoloration seen in conditions such as chronic venous insufficiency. This process is known as hemosiderin deposition and is a common consequence of venous stasis.