Progressive Care Nursing Certification (PCCN) Practice Exam

Which discharge education is essential for a patient diagnosed with severe peripheral vascular disease?

1. Nutritional counseling

2. Social work consult

3. Speech therapy consult

4. Smoking cessation counseling

The correct answer is: Smoking cessation counseling

Discharge education for a patient diagnosed with severe peripheral vascular disease should include smoking cessation counseling due to the significant impact that smoking has on the progression and management of vascular disease. Smoking contributes to the development and exacerbation of atherosclerosis, leading to further narrowing and damage of blood vessels. This illness primarily affects blood flow, and in patients with peripheral vascular disease, adequate circulation is crucial for healing wounds, maintaining limb viability, and preventing complications like infections or amputations. By providing counseling on smoking cessation, healthcare providers can help patients understand the risks associated with smoking, encourage them to quit, and offer resources or programs that can support their efforts. This intervention is vital for improving long-term outcomes and enhancing the overall quality of life for patients suffering from peripheral vascular issues. While nutritional counseling, social work consultations, and speech therapy can also be beneficial in certain contexts, they do not have the same direct and critical impact on the management and prognosis of peripheral vascular disease as smoking cessation does. Effective smoking cessation strategies can significantly reduce cardiovascular risks, improve blood flow, and ultimately foster better health outcomes in these patients.