RN HESI Exit Exam Capstone Related

Review RN HESI Exit Exam Capstone related questions and content

A client with peripheral vascular disease reports leg pain while walking. What intervention is most effective for the nurse to recommend?

  • A. Recommend elevating the legs above the heart.
  • B. Encourage the client to increase walking distance gradually.
  • C. Encourage the client to avoid sitting or standing for long periods.
  • D. Instruct the client to use warm compresses for pain relief.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to encourage the client to increase walking distance gradually. This intervention is effective because gradual increases in walking distance promote circulation, improve oxygen delivery to tissues, and help reduce leg pain caused by peripheral vascular disease. Elevating the legs above the heart (Choice A) may be beneficial in other conditions like venous insufficiency but not specifically for peripheral vascular disease. Encouraging the client to avoid sitting or standing for long periods (Choice C) can help prevent blood pooling but does not directly address the walking-induced leg pain. Instructing the client to use warm compresses for pain relief (Choice D) may provide temporary relief but does not address the underlying circulation issues associated with peripheral vascular disease.