Lecture Notes on Peripheral Vascular and Lymphatic Systems

Overview

• Focus: Relationship of peripheral vascular and lymphatic systems in physical assessments
• Heart Function: Pumps oxygenated blood through arteries, high-pressure system
• Arterial Walls: Strong, elastic fibers for systole and diastole
• Ischemia: Caused by obstruction in blood vessel, can be complete or partial

Arterial System

Arteries in the Arm

• Major Artery: Brachial artery
  • Location: Bicep and tricep furrow, surfaces at the antecubital fossa
  • Bifurcation: Into ulnar and radial arteries
  • Palmar Arches: Supply the hand

Arteries in the Leg

• Major Artery: Femoral artery
  • Pathway: Transitions to popliteal artery
  • Divides into: Anterior tibial (dorsalis pedis) and posterior tibial artery (posterior tibial pulse)

Venous System

• Function: Drains deoxygenated blood, low-pressure system
• Veins Types:
  • Superficial and Deep Veins: Superficial responsible for most venous return
  • Risk Factors for Venous Disease: Hypercoagulable states, vein trauma, incompetent valves

Lymphatic System

• Function: Retrieves excess fluid, part of immune system
• Immune Function: Detects and eliminates pathogens
• Related Organs:
  • Spleen: Destroys old RBCs, produces antibodies, stores RBCs, filters microorganisms
  • Tonsils and Adenoids: Respond to inflammation

Special Considerations

• Older Adults: Arteriosclerosis vs. atherosclerosis
  • Intermittent Claudication: Pain during walking, relieved by rest

Subjective Data Collection

• Key Questions: Leg pain, cramps, skin changes, swelling, lymph node enlargement, medications, smoking history
• Leg Pain: Aggravating factors, relief methods, associated symptoms

Objective Data Collection

• Inspection and Palpation:
  • Arms: Inspect skin color, temperature, turgor, lesions
  • Legs: Symmetry, swelling, varicosities
• Pulses: Radial, femoral, popliteal, dorsalis pedis, posterior tibial

Abnormal Findings

• Venous and Arterial Insufficiency: Conditions, symptoms, risk factors
• Ulcers: Characteristics of venous and arterial ulcers

Summary of Nursing Assessment

• Charting Example: Subjective and Objective data collection from patient
• Considerations for Practice: Importance of customized patient assessment