A nurse is assessing a client who reports a nevus that has increased in size and an irregularly shaped lesion that varies in color. These findings are consistent with which of the following medical diagnoses?
Squamous cell carcinoma
Malignant melanoma
Kaposi's sarcoma
Basal cell carcinoma
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason:
Squamous cell carcinoma typically presents as a rough, scaly, red patch, open sore, or raised growth with a central depression, often on sun-exposed areas of the body. While it can appear as a lesion that varies in color, it is not commonly associated with a nevus that has increased in size.
Choice B reason:
Malignant melanoma is associated with changes in preexisting nevi, such as an increase in size and variations in color. It often appears as a mole that changes in color, size, or feel and may have irregular edges. The description of the lesion provided by the client is characteristic of malignant melanoma, making this the correct diagnosis.
Choice C reason:
Kaposi's sarcoma is a cancer that forms in the lining of blood and lymph vessels and typically appears as patches of abnormal tissue on the skin or mucous membranes. These lesions are usually red or purple and look similar to bruises¹. They are not typically described as nevi that increase in size or lesions that vary in color.
Choice D reason:
Basal cell carcinoma often appears as a slightly transparent bump on the skin, though it can take other forms. It usually presents as a pearly white or pink bump on white skin, or a brown or black bump on darker skin, and is most often found on sun-exposed areas. It is not typically associated with a nevus that has increased in size or an irregularly shaped lesion that varies in color.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
While metabolic syndrome is associated with several health issues, it is not a direct risk factor for hyperthyroidism. Metabolic syndrome typically includes conditions like insulin resistance, hypertension, and dyslipidemia, which are more closely related to diabetes and cardiovascular diseases rather than thyroid function.
Choice B reason:
An iodine deficiency is commonly associated with hypothyroidism, not hyperthyroidism. Iodine is essential for the production of thyroid hormones, and a lack of it can lead to decreased hormone production and an underactive thyroid.
Choice C reason:
Graves' disease is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism. It is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland, causing it to produce too much thyroid hormone. A 35-year-old male with Graves' disease would indeed be at high risk for hyperthyroidism.
Choice D reason:
While a family history of autoimmune disorders can increase the risk of developing autoimmune-related hyperthyroidism, it is not as direct a risk factor as having Graves' disease itself. Autoimmune disorders can have a genetic component, but having a family history does not guarantee the development of hyperthyroidism.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
The statement "This procedure is routinely performed during a Pap test" is incorrect. A colposcopy is not routinely performed during a Pap test; it is a separate procedure that is often recommended if a Pap test shows abnormal results. The colposcopy allows for a closer examination of the cervix, vagina, and vulva to detect any signs of disease.
Choice B reason:
The statement "During the procedure, a biopsy may be performed" is correct. If the healthcare provider sees an area of concern during the colposcopy, they may take a small sample of tissue (biopsy) from the cervix or from inside the opening of the cervix.
Choice C reason:
The statement "Do not eat or drink after midnight tonight" is not necessary for a colposcopy. Unlike some surgical procedures that require general anesthesia, a colposcopy is usually done with local anesthesia, and fasting is not required.
Choice D reason:
The statement "You will have general anesthesia during this procedure" is incorrect. General anesthesia is not typically used for a colposcopy. The procedure may cause some discomfort, but it is usually performed using local anesthesia or no anesthesia at all.
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