The presence of arterial insufficiency is suspected during an inspecti

The presence of arterial insufficiency is suspected during an inspection of the lower extremities when the nurse observes:

1. Increased hair growth
2. Cooler skin temperatures
3. Marked edema
4. Brown pigmentation

ANSWER

ANS: 2
In the presence of arterial insufficiency, the client has signs resulting from an absence of blood flow, such as pain, pallor, and decreased or absent pulses in the lower extremities. The lower ex-tremities become dusky red when the extremity is lowered. They feel cool to touch because blood flow is blocked to the extremity. Decreased hair growth or the absence of hair growth over the legs may indicate arterial insufficiency. Marked edema is seen in venous insufficiency, not arterial insufficiency. Brown pigmentation around the ankles is seen in venous insufficiency. Skin changes in arterial insufficiency include thin, shiny skin, decreased hair growth, and thickened nails.