Question

A client arrives for an annual physical exam and complains of having calf pain. The client's health history reveals peripheral arterial disease. Which question should the nurse ask the client about experienced findings to chronic arterial symptoms?

a. Were your legs suddenly swollen, red, warm and painful?
b. does the calf pain occur when walking short distances?
c. Did you receive treatment for weeping ulcers on lower legs?
d. Have you experienced ankle edema and varicose veins?

Answer 1

The nurse should ask the client if the calf pain occurs when walking short distances, as it helps identify chronic arterial symptoms related to peripheral arterial disease (PAD).

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should ask the client the question: Does the calf pain occur when walking short distances?

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) occurs when there is a narrowing of the peripheral arteries, usually in the legs, due to atherosclerosis. One of the classic symptoms of PAD is leg pain when walking, also known as intermittent claudication. This pain occurs because of decreased blood flow in the leg arteries. Therefore, asking the client if the calf pain occurs when walking short distances can help identify if the client is experiencing chronic arterial symptoms related to PAD.