Question

A client with chronic peripheral arterial disease and claudication tells the nurse that burning pain often awakens him from sleep. What is the nurse's interpretation of this change?

a. The client has inflow disease.
b. The client has outflow disease.
c. The client's disease is worsening.
d. The client's disease is stable.

Answer 1

Burning pain in a client with chronic peripheral arterial disease (PAD) during rest, particularly at night, suggests that the person's PAD may be worsening. Addressing the underlying atherosclerosis is crucial in managing PAD. Health care providers should monitor symptoms closely to prevent complications such as gangrenous inflammation.

Step-by-step explanation:

A client with chronic peripheral arterial disease (PAD) and claudication who experiences burning pain that awakens them from sleep suggests that the individual's condition may be worsening. The presence of symptoms such as burning pain during rest, particularly when it awakens a person from sleep, can be an indication that there is inadequate blood flow to the affected tissues even at rest, signifying a progression of the disease. To manage PAD effectively, it's important to address the underlying atherosclerosis and consider various treatment options ranging from lifestyle changes to medical interventions.

It's crucial for health care providers to monitor PAD symptoms closely and to provide appropriate treatment to prevent complications, such as gangrenous inflammation and infection, which can follow severe and chronic arterial insufficiency.