Answer to Question 1
Ensure adequate hydration to prevent increased blood viscosity.
Avoid exposing the right leg to temperatures below 70 F (21.1 C) to prevent vasoconstriction
and subsequent reduction of arterial blood flow.
Do not use heating pads and hot water bottlesthe skin has poor circulation and is subject to
injury.
Avoid crossing the legs, especially at the knee; it will further impair circulation.
Take steps to prevent trauma to tissue; for example, wear socks or protective footwear at all times
(do not go barefoot).
Use minimal pressure when applying lotions or creams because excessive pressure can damage
the skin. Tissue oxygenation is already compromised because of impaired arterial circulation. Any
damage to this tissue can result in ulceration.
Answer to Question 2
Exercise may improve collateral circulation to the limb. Exercise will be started slowly and gradually
increased. S.P. will be instructed to walk to the point of claudication, stop, rest, then to walk a little
farther. As collateral circulation improves, the distances walked will improve. It will take persistence
on S.P.'s part to continue this exercise.