A nurse is performing a skin assessment on a client who has dark skin.
Which of the following locations on the client’s body should the nurse observe to assess for cyanosis?
Area of trauma.
Sacrum.
Shoulders.
Palms of the hands.
The Correct Answer is D
Cyanosis is a bluish discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes due to inadequate oxygenation of the blood. It is more difficult to detect in people who have dark skin, so the nurse should look for cyanosis in areas where the skin is thinner and the blood supply is richer, such as the palms of the hands, the lips, the gums, and around the eyes.
These areas are less affected by melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color.
Choice A is wrong because an area of trauma may have bruising or inflammation that can mask cyanosis.
Choice B is wrong because the sacrum is not a good site to assess for cyanosis in any skin tone, as it is prone to pressure ulcers and poor circulation.
Choice C is wrong because the shoulders are not a mucous membrane and may have more melanin than other areas of the body.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A non-tender, protruding abdomen is a normal finding for a 2- year-old toddler. This is due to the immature development of the abdominal muscles and the relatively large size of the liver and kidneys in relation to the rest of the body.
Choice B is wrong because the head circumference should be equal to or less than the chest circumference by age 2. A head circumference that exceeds the chest circumference could indicate hydrocephalus or other neurological problems.
Choice C is wrong because the fontanels, or soft spots on the skull, should be closed by the age of 18 months. Palpable fontanels could indicate dehydration, malnutrition, or congenital disorders.
Choice D is wrong because the natural loss of deciduous teeth, or baby teeth, usually begins around age 6. Premature loss of teeth could indicate dental caries, trauma, or endocrine disorders.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
This is because postural drainage involves positioning the child in different ways to help drain the mucus from the lungs. If the child has a full stomach, this can cause nausea, vomiting, or aspiration. Therefore, the nurse should perform the procedure before meals or at least 1 hour after meals.
Choice A is wrong because the nurse should not hold the hand flat to perform percussions on the child.
Percussions are rhythmic clapping on the chest wall to loosen the mucus. The nurse should use a cupped hand to create a small air pocket that enhances the vibrations and prevents bruising.
Choice B is wrong because the nurse should not perform the procedure twice a day. The recommended frequency of postural drainage is 3 to 4 times a day, or more if needed, depending on the child’s condition and tolerance.
Choice D is wrong because the nurse should not administer a bronchodilator after the procedure.
A bronchodilator is a medication that relaxes and widens the airways, making it easier to breathe. The nurse should administer a bronchodilator before the procedure to enhance the effectiveness of postural drainage.
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