Certified Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse Practice Exam

Where is a venous ulcer typically located on a patient?

1. The medial lower leg and ankle

2. The plantar aspect of foot

3. On a bony prominence

4. Under the heels

The correct answer is: The medial lower leg and ankle

The correct answer highlights that a venous ulcer is typically found on the medial lower leg and ankle. This is due to the pathophysiology of venous insufficiency, where blood flow is compromised, leading to increased venous pressure and subsequent ulcer formation in these areas. The distribution of venous ulcers primarily occurs in locations where the venous return is affected most, such as around the medial malleolus and lower leg, due to the proximity to the superficial veins. Other potential locations mentioned, like the plantar aspect of the foot or on bony prominences, are more characteristic of diabetic ulcers or pressure ulcers respectively, and are not typically associated with venous ulcers. Venous ulcers also do not usually develop under the heels, as this area is prone to pressure but not specifically to venous stasis conditions leading to ulceration.