Final answer:
The 70-year-old who smokes is at the highest risk for PAD due to smoking being a well-documented risk factor, contributing to arterial plaque buildup and associated with atherosclerosis.
Step-by-step explanation:
Which Client is at Risk for Developing Peripheral Arterial Disease?
In considering the risk factors for developing peripheral arterial disease (PAD), it's evident that lifestyle choices and health habits significantly impact the likelihood of developing this condition. PAD develops due to atherosclerosis, where plaque accumulates in the arterial walls, most commonly in the legs, leading to symptoms like pain and difficulty walking. Among the individuals presented, the 70-year-old who smokes is at the highest risk for developing PAD. This is because smoking is one of the most well-documented risk factors for PAD, as it contributes to the buildup of plaque in the arteries and is associated with atherosclerosis. Other modifiable risk factors include sedentary lifestyle, obesity, and hypertension, but smoking remains the prime risk factor that can lead to PAD.
Therefore, the correct answer is d) A 70-year-old who smokes.