An older adult client with a history of severe bilateral peripheral arterial disease (PAD) reports intense, burning pain in the lower extremities that wakes them during the night. The client's lower extremities are hairless, with thin, dry skin that is cool to the touch. The nurse is planning basic care to promote comfort and sleep. Which nursing action is most appropriate?
- AElevate the client's lower extremities on two pillows above the level of the heart during sleep.
- BDelegate the unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) to apply warming lotion and vigorously massage the client's calves.
- Assist the client to sit on the side of the bed and dangle the legs over the edge when the pain occurs.Cevap
- DReassure the client that this nocturnal discomfort is a normal, expected physiological consequence of the aging process.
Cevap
Assist the client to sit on the side of the bed and dangle the legs over the edge when the pain occurs.
Clients with severe peripheral arterial disease (PAD) often experience ischemic rest pain at night due to decreased cardiac output during sleep and the horizontal position of the legs in bed, which further reduces arterial perfusion. Assisting the client to dangle their legs over the side of the bed places the extremities in a dependent position, allowing gravity to enhance arterial blood flow to the distal tissues and providing significant comfort.
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Anahtar Kavram
Basic care and comfort for peripheral arterial disease involves positioning the extremities in a dependent position to promote arterial circulation.