About
Peripheral Arterial Disease

Lower extremity peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is a common cardiovascular disease (CVD) that affects up to 12 million Americans. It is associated with significant morbidity, mortality, and quality of life impairment. Because of the systemic nature of atherosclerosis, those with PAD are at an increased risk for CVD events, including myocardial infarction and stroke.

The PAD Guidelines were updated in 2024 and include an emphasis on the severe and systemic disparities in PAD recognition and treatment recommendations. The guidelines expose the role of social determinants of health causing health inequities and leading to disparities seen across populations in resulting rates of lower limb amputation. As nurses, we are poised to make a huge impact on the recognition and management of PAD to save limbs and to save lives.

Resources

Provider Tools

PAD Screening Slidedeck

September 19, 2024

Patient Education Handouts

Step on Up: Peripheral Artery Disease Fact Sheet

October 12, 2024

Courses

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Free

Podcast Episodes

Lifestyle and Behavior Change, PAD

The Links Between Smoking and Peripheral Arterial Disease

Guest Lola Coke, PhD, ACNS-BC, FAHA, FPCNA, FAAN, describes the impacts on…

PAD

PAD: Diagnosis and Management of an Often-Silent Condition

An estimated 8.5 million adults over the age of 40 have PAD,…