Peripheral Vascular Exam

Question 1

what would you inspect in a peripheral vascular exam

Answer 1

general + bedside

Question 2

how would you examine the upper body in a peripheral vascular exam

Answer 2

feel temp of hands
capillary refill time
radial pulse, R-R delay, ulnar and brachial pulse
perform an allens test
palpate carotids
examine the eyes, lips, tongue
feel for an AAA

Question 3

how would you examine the lower body in a peripheral vascular exam

Answer 3

inspect legs, feet and toes (posterior and inbetween toes)
assess temp
palpate aorta, femoral, popliteal, dorsalis pedis and posterior tibial pulses
light touch sensation
capillary refill
assess power in foot+leg

Question 4

what would you ausculate in a peripheral vascular exam

Answer 4

SCARF
subclavian
carotid
aorta
renal
femoral

Question 5

what special test would you include in a peripheral vascular exam

Answer 5

buerger’s test
lying feet up at 45 for 2-3 mins
swing legs off bed
blue then red -> positive