To assess the impact of intermittent claudication on a client, which question should the nurse ask?

To assess the impact of intermittent claudication on a client, it is essential to inquire specifically about the characteristics and triggers of the pain associated with this condition. Intermittent claudication is characterized by muscle pain or cramping, typically occurring during physical activity, such as walking or climbing stairs, and usually relieved with rest. By asking about the sharpness of leg pain and its correlation with exercise, the nurse can gather pertinent information that is crucial for diagnosing and understanding the extent of the client's condition.

This question directly targets the hallmark symptom of intermittent claudication, which is pain that arises with exertion due to inadequate blood flow, thereby facilitating a clearer assessment of the client's functional capacity and the severity of their vascular issue.

On the other hand, while inquiries about swelling in the legs, constant pain throughout the day, and changes in leg color can provide additional information regarding venous insufficiency or other vascular conditions, they do not specifically target the classic symptoms or the triggers of intermittent claudication, which makes them less relevant for this particular assessment.