Assessment & Management of Clients with Vascular & Peripheral Circulation Problems

Twenty vocabulary flashcards covering key terms and concepts related to arterial disorders, including definitions and symptoms.

Arteriosclerosis

The thickening and hardening of arterial walls, causing arteries to become stiff and less elastic.

Atherosclerosis

A type of arteriosclerosis that involves the buildup of fats and cholesterol inside the artery, leading to plaque formation.

Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)

Narrowing or blockage of arteries supplying the lower extremities, most commonly caused by atherosclerosis.

Intermittent claudication

A symptom of PAD described as aching, cramping, fatigue, or weakness that occurs with activity and is relieved by rest.

Rest pain

A type of pain indicating more advanced disease, characterized by deep, persistent, aching or boring pain that may worsen at night.

Aneurysms

Blood vessel bulges that can be saccular or fusiform

Saccular aneurysm

A type of aneurysm which presents as a bulge on one side of the vessel wall.

Fusiform aneurysm

A type of aneurysm that involves a bulge of the entire circumference of the vessel.

Raynaud’s Phenomenon

A condition caused by sudden vasoconstriction of small arteries, primarily affecting the fingers and toes.

Symptoms of Raynaud’s Phenomenon

Color changes (white, blue, then red), numbness, tingling, and burning or painful sensation during reperfusion.

Triggers for Raynaud’s

Cold exposure and emotional stress are common triggers.

Pulse pressure

The difference between systolic and diastolic blood pressure.

Hypertensive Crisis

A severe and sudden elevation in blood pressure that can be life-threatening.

Management of Hypertensive Crisis

Lowering blood pressure by no more than 25% in the first hour and reducing to less than 160/100 mmHg within 2-6 hours.

Risks of Hypertensive Crisis

Potential complications include ischemic stroke, aortic dissection, and permanent organ damage or death.

Medications for Hypertensive Crisis

Fast-acting beta blockers like propranolol and metoprolol, as well as ACE inhibitors.

Decreased oxygen delivery

Occurs in PAD due to arterial narrowing, particularly during physical activities.

Symptoms that worsen with activity

Characteristics of PAD where symptoms are exacerbated by increased activity.

Patient education for Raynaud’s

Includes protecting hands and feet from cold, avoiding known triggers, and preventing injury.

Ischemia

A condition resulting from reduced blood flow to tissues.

Hemorrhage

A potential consequence of a ruptured aneurysm, leading to severe blood loss.