Inspecting the Extremities Flashcards
• Inspect the skin of the extremities for…
color, temperature, continuity, lesions (as described previously for assessment of the integument), venous patterns, and edema.
Normally, venous patterns, varicosities, rashes, ulcers, or edema are ________ on the lower extremities.
Absent
Peripheral vascular disease results in…
decreased blood flow and oxygenation of tissues.
In Peripheral Vascular Disease, the skin of the lower extremities is usually…
pale and cool, shiny with brown discolorations, and hairless
In Peripheral Vascular Disease, the toenails are usually…
thickened.
Phlebitis (inflammation of a vein) of the lower extremity is indicated by
pain, redness, and swelling of the affected calf or thigh.
Use the pads of the index and middle fingers to palpate…
peripheral pulses for amplitude and symmetry.
Which arteries do we palpate one at a time?
the carotid, brachial, radial, femoral, popliteal, dorsalis pedis, and posterior tibial pulses.
All pulses palpated should be…
strong and equal bilaterally
How to check capillary refill…
Use your thumb and forefinger, squeeze the patient’s fingernail or toenail until it blanches (turns white). Release the pressure and observe the time it takes for normal color to return.
Normal Capillary Refill is…
less than 3 seconds
An asymmetric pulse indicates…
impaired circulation
Thready pulse may indicate…
a decreased cardiac output.
A forceful or bounding pulse may indicate…
hypertension and circulatory fluid overload
Prolonged capillary refill is associated with…
alterations in peripheral perfusion and cardiac output
