A weak portion of an arterial wall may bulge out forming a sac which is known as

UPPSC 2017

Medical & Surgical Nursing

Easy

Appeared in: UPPSC 2017

Explanation

An aneurysm is defined as a permanent, localized dilation or sac-like bulge in the wall of a blood vessel.
This condition occurs when a part of the arterial wall weakens, allowing it to expand outward under the pressure of blood flow.
The key features described in the question—a weak portion of an arterial wall bulging out to form a sac—perfectly match the definition of an aneurysm.

Option A: Atherosclerosis is the underlying disease process involving the buildup of cholesterol plaques inside arteries. While it is a major cause of aneurysms because it weakens the arterial wall, it is not the bulge itself.
Option C: Anastomosis refers to a natural or surgically created connection between two structures, such as blood vessels or parts of the intestine. It is a point of joining, not a weakened bulge.
Option D: Arteriosclerosis is a general term for the hardening and loss of elasticity of arteries. It describes the stiffening of the vessel wall, not a specific sac-like bulge.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Pathophysiology of arterial disorders as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
The most significant clinical risk of an aneurysm is rupture, which can cause catastrophic internal hemorrhage and is often fatal. The risk of rupture increases with the size of the aneurysm.
Nurses play a crucial role in monitoring patients with known aneurysms, focusing on blood pressure control (to reduce stress on the arterial wall) and assessing for signs of expansion or impending rupture, such as new or worsening pain (e.g., abdominal, back, or head pain).
What if? If a patient with a known abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) suddenly complains of severe, tearing back pain and becomes hypotensive, the nurse must suspect an aneurysm rupture. This is a medical emergency requiring immediate surgical intervention and aggressive fluid resuscitation.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question that tests your knowledge of medical terminology related to vascular pathology.
First, identify the key descriptive words in the question stem: 'weak portion,' 'arterial wall,' 'bulge out,' and 'sac.'
Next, evaluate each option based on this description.
Recall the definitions: 'Atherosclerosis' and 'Arteriosclerosis' relate to plaque and hardening, not a sac. 'Anastomosis' is a connection.
The term 'Aneurysm' directly corresponds to the definition of a bulge or sac in a weakened vessel wall.
Therefore, select the option that precisely matches the pathological description provided in the stem.

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