During the physical examination of the mouth, the nurse identifies vesicular eruptions along the client's lips and surrounding skin. Which problem should the nurse document?

Choice A Reason:
Angular cheilitis is characterized by inflammation of one or both corners of the mouth. It often presents as red, swollen patches in the corners of the mouth and can be associated with fungal or bacterial infection. However, it does not typically cause vesicular eruptions, which are more indicative of viral infections like herpes simplex.

Choice B Reason:
Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is known for causing vesicular eruptions, commonly referred to as cold sores or fever blisters, around the lips and mouth area. These eruptions are fluid-filled blisters that can be painful and are highly indicative of an HSV infection, particularly HSV type 1, which commonly affects the oral region.

Choice C Reason:
Angioedema involves the rapid swelling of the deeper layers of the skin, often seen with hives. While it can affect the lips and surrounding areas, it does not cause vesicular eruptions. Angioedema is more associated with allergic reactions and can be part of anaphylaxis, a severe systemic reaction.

Choice a reason:
A penlight is used to provide illumination during an examination, not to move the tongue. It helps the nurse to visualize the mouth floor and other areas by casting light, but it does not have the physical structure to manipulate the tongue.

Choice b reason:
Gloves are worn by healthcare professionals to maintain hygiene and protect both the patient and the nurse from the transmission of infectious agents. They are not used to move the tongue to one side during an examination.

Choice c reason:
A gauze pad is the correct tool to use when the nurse needs to move the tongue to one side during an examination of the mouth floor. The nurse can wrap the gauze pad around the tongue for a better grip, which allows for safe and effective retraction of the tongue without causing discomfort to the patient.

Choice d reason:
A tongue blade, also known as a tongue depressor, is typically used to depress the tongue to examine the back of the throat, not to move the tongue to one side. It is used to hold the tongue down so that the nurse can inspect the oropharynx and other structures.