NCLEX RN Medical Surgical Questions Related

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When assessing the lower extremities of a client with peripheral vascular disease (PVD), the nurse notes bilateral ankle edema. The edema is related to:

  • A. Decreased blood volume
  • B. Increase in muscular activity
  • C. Increased venous pressure
  • D. Increased arterial pressure
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Bilateral ankle edema in PVD is often due to increased venous pressure from venous insufficiency or right-sided heart failure, which impairs venous return and causes fluid to pool in the lower extremities. Decreased blood volume or increased muscular activity does not cause edema, and arterial pressure is not directly related.