The nurse observes that the lower legs of a client with diabetes mellitus are shiny, and with no hair growth. To obtain additional data to support these findings, which assessment should the nurse perform?

A. Ask if the client often feels weak or hungry: While important in overall diabetes assessment, weakness or hunger are more related to poor glucose control and they do not specifically indicate peripheral vascular changes such as shiny skin and hair loss.B. Compare the range of motion of both legs: Assessing range of motion can be useful in evaluating joint or muscular issues but does not provide specific information about vascular status or circulation, which is the primary concern here.C. Measure the client's capillary glucose: Blood glucose levels are essential in managing diabetes but do not assess the presence or severity of peripheral vascular disease, which can lead to changes in skin and hair growth on the lower legs.D. Palpate the client's dorsalis pedis pulses: Shiny skin and hair loss on the legs suggest poor peripheral circulation, often related to peripheral arterial disease, a common complication of diabetes mellitus. High blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels over time, leading to narrowing and reduced blood flow, particularly in the lower extremities. Palpating dorsalis pedis pulses helps assess arterial blood flow and supports evaluation of vascular insufficiency.