Treating patients with peripheral arterial disease and claudication

Area of Science:

• Vascular Medicine
• Cardiovascular Health
• Public Health

Background:

• Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) affects millions in the US, often leading to claudication, characterized by leg pain during exercise.
• PAD and claudication significantly increase morbidity, mortality, functional limitations, and decrease quality of life.
• Undiagnosed PAD elevates risks for cardiovascular events, disease progression, disability, amputation, and death.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the critical role of vascular nurses in managing PAD and claudication.
• To emphasize the importance of risk factor modification and lifestyle changes in PAD management.
• To underscore the impact of nursing interventions on patient outcomes in PAD.

Main Methods:

• Review of the role of vascular nurses in patient care for PAD and claudication.
• Identification of key risk factors for PAD and claudication.
• Discussion of effective treatment strategies, including exercise and medication.
• Emphasis on nursing interventions for risk factor modification and behavioral changes.

Main Results:

• Vascular nurses are integral to patient treatment, addressing risk factors like smoking, diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia.
• Exercise training is highly effective for claudication, often complemented by medication.
• Nurses facilitate smoking cessation, glycemic control, blood pressure and lipid management, and adherence to antiplatelet therapy and exercise programs.

Conclusions:

• Vascular nurses significantly contribute to positive outcomes for patients with PAD and claudication.
• Effective management by vascular nurses involves comprehensive risk factor control and patient education.
• Early diagnosis and proactive nursing care are essential to mitigate the severe consequences of PAD.