A nursing instructor is discussing the diagnosis of intermittent claudication with students. To determine whether the students understand the pathophysiology of the disease, the instructor asks, "What percentage of the arterial lumen must be obstructed before intermittent claudication is experienced?" What answer should the students give?

The answer is 50.

Explanation:

Typically, about 50% of the arterial lumen or 75% of the cross-sectional area must be obstructed before intermittent claudication is experienced.

50%; 50 percentage of the arterial lumen must be obstructed before intermittent claudication is experienced

Explanation:

Intermittent claudication refers to an aching pain in the legs when walking or exercising that goes away when resting. The pain may affect your: calf, hip, thigh, buttock, arch of the foot.

Intermittent claudication is a common early symptom of PAD. It’s caused by a blockage or obstruction of the arteries that supply blood to your legs and elsewhere peripherally.

For intermittent claudication to occur or be experienced, about 50% of the arterial lumen or 75% of the cross-sectional area must be obstructed or blocked.

Therefore, the answer the student should give is 50%.