Peripheral Vascular

Peripheral vascular assessment differentiates arterial insufficiency (atherosclerotic occlusion reducing distal perfusion) from venous insufficiency (valvular incompetence causing blood pooling). The nurse uses pulse assessment, skin changes, ABI, and wound characteristics to determine the type and guide evidence-based interventions.

Risk factors: - Smoking - Diabetes mellitus - Hypertension - Hyperlipidemia - Obesity - Prolonged immobility - History of DVT

Diagnostics: - Perform ankle-brachial index per protocol - Assess peripheral pulses using Doppler if needed - Monitor capillary refill and skin temperature - Assess wound characteristics per protocol - Monitor for signs of acute limb ischemia