Question

A nurse is assessing a client who has as an ulcer due to peripheral vascular disease. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as an indication that the client has a venous ulcer rather than an arterial ulcer?

A: Diminished peripheral pulsations in the right lower leg
B: Discoloration and edema of the right ankle
C: Atrophy of the skin and hair loss on the right leg
D: Dependent rubor in the right leg

Answer 1

Discoloration and edema of the right ankle indicate a venous ulcer, contrasting with peripheral artery disease symptoms such as diminished pulsations or dependent rubor.

Step-by-step explanation:

Among the findings listed, the indication of a venous ulcer rather than an arterial ulcer is discoloration and edema of the right ankle. Venous ulcers are often associated with conditions that affect the venous circulation, like varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency, leading to edema and discoloration due to stagnation of blood and increased pressure in the veins. On the other hand, symptoms like diminished peripheral pulsations, atrophy of the skin, hair loss, and dependent rubor are more characteristic of peripheral artery disease (PAD), where there is poor arterial blood flow.