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 B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Asking questions about the information on her postoperative care pamphlet is a positive behavior indicating that the client is proactive in understanding her care and recovery process. It shows engagement and a desire to comply with medical advice, which is beneficial for recovery.
Choice B reason:
Refusing to look at the dressing or surgical incision may indicate psychological distress and difficulty in accepting the physical changes following a mastectomy. This behavior can be a sign of avoidance and a potential struggle with body image and the emotional impact of breast loss. It's important for healthcare providers to recognize this as a call for psychological support and possible referral to counseling services.
Choice C reason:
Performing arm exercises once or twice a day is typically recommended as part of the postoperative care after a mastectomy to prevent stiffness and improve mobility. This behavior suggests that the client is following postoperative instructions and actively participating in her recovery.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","E"]
Explanation
The correct answer is: a, b, c, and e.
Choice A: “I will make sure to feel for changes in my underarm area.”
Reason: This statement is correct because the underarm area (axilla) contains lymph nodes that can be affected by breast cancer. Including the underarm area in a breast self-exam helps in detecting any unusual lumps or changes that could indicate a problem.
Choice B: “It is important to press firmly when feeling my breasts to detect changes.”
Reason: This statement is correct because using firm pressure during a breast self-exam helps to feel the deeper tissues of the breast, which is essential for detecting any abnormalities or lumps that might be present.
Choice C: “I don’t have to lie down to check my breasts. I can stand in the shower.”
Reason: This statement is correct because performing a breast self-exam in the shower is a common and effective method. The wet and slippery skin makes it easier to feel for any changes or lumps in the breast tissue.
Choice D: “If I feel a firm ridge in the lower curve of my breasts, I should report this immediately.”
Reason: This statement is incorrect because it is normal to feel a firm ridge in the lower curve of the breast. This ridge is part of the normal breast anatomy and does not necessarily indicate a problem.
Choice E: “Since I no longer have periods, I can perform an examination at any time of the month.”
Reason: This statement is correct because menopausal women do not have menstrual cycles to guide the timing of their breast self-exams. Therefore, they can choose any consistent day each month to perform the exam.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.