Evaluation of lower extremity arterial circulation and implications for nursing practice.
Lower extremity arterial disease (LEAD) affects millions of Americans, causing impaired function and a high risk of nonhealing wounds, infection, and limb loss. This chronic, progressive condition is often silent until a life- or limb-threatening complication occurs and impacts the quality of life of individuals and their families and results in high healthcare costs. Assessment forms the cornerstone of effective nursing care, yet despite several national guidelines, LEAD remains unrecognized in half of persons with the condition. This article presents an overview of assessment of LEAD, including descriptions of the risks, pathogenesis, and common characteristics of arterial disease.
Bonham
Phyllis A
PA
Wound Care Education Program, College of Nursing, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, USA. pbonham1@comcast.net <pbonham1@comcast.net>
Kelechi
Teresa
T
D001157:Arterial Occlusive Diseases / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000451:nursing*; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D006801:Humans; D007383:Intermittent Claudication / Q000209:etiology; D007866:Leg / Q000098:blood supply; D024802:Nurse's Role; D009730:Nursing Assessment / Q000379:methods; D015403:Nursing Evaluation Research; D010146:Pain / Q000209:etiology; D016491:Peripheral Vascular Diseases / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000451:nursing*; D011788:Quality of Life; D012039:Regional Blood Flow / Q000502:physiology; D018570:Risk Assessment; D014481:United States / Q000453:epidemiology; D016138:Walking