Pathophysiology
Clinical meaning
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. Connect Peripheral Vascular to bedside cues you will reassess first: vitals trends, work of breathing, perfusion, mentation, and pain or ischemic equivalents when relevant. Boards reward recognizing when subtle instability outweighs reassurance, then selecting nursing actions that protect airway, circulation, and neurologic status before routine tasks.