A patient with chronic venous insufficiency should avoid which self-care practice?

• A. Elevating legs
• B. Applying compression stockings
• C. Clipping toenails
• D. Regular walking

Answer: (C)

Chronic venous insufficiency makes the skin and tissues around the legs more vulnerable to injury and infection due to edema and poor venous return. Self-care that protects the skin and maintains tissue integrity is key, such as elevating the legs to reduce swelling, using compression stockings to support venous flow, and walking to improve circulation. Clipping toenails, especially when nails are thick or sensation is reduced, can easily cause microtrauma to the nail bed or surrounding skin. In this setting, a small cut or injury can become a portal for infection and contribute to skin breakdown or ulcers. For safe nail care, nails should be trimmed carefully by a professional or with proper technique if done at home, using straight-across cuts and smoothing edges to prevent ingrown nails and skin injury.