In assessing a client's nailbeds, the nurse notes that the angle between the nail and the nailbed is 200 degrees. Which action should the nurse take?
Document the presence of nailbed clubbing.
Consult with a podiatrist to trim the client's toenails.
Determine the client's most recent hemoglobin level.
Administer a PRN prescription for oxygen.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Nailbed clubbing is characterized by an increased angle between the nail and the nailbed, typically greater than 180 degrees. An angle of 200 degrees is consistent with clubbing, which can be a sign of chronic respiratory or cardiovascular conditions, such as chronic lung diseases, congenital heart defects, or other systemic conditions.
B. Consulting with a podiatrist to trim toenails is important for foot care but is not directly related to the finding of nailbed clubbing. The angle of the nailbed is more indicative of a systemic issue rather than a local foot care problem. Therefore, this action does not address the underlying concern suggested by the angle of 200 degrees.
C. While anemia or other blood conditions can affect the nails, the specific finding of a nailbed angle of 200 degrees is more indicative of clubbing rather than issues typically associated with hemoglobin levels. Therefore, while monitoring hemoglobin is important for overall health, it is not the immediate priority in response to the finding of nailbed clubbing.
D. Administering oxygen might be necessary if the client is experiencing symptoms of hypoxia or has a condition affecting oxygenation. However, the finding of nailbed clubbing itself does not immediately necessitate oxygen therapy. Oxygen administration should be based on specific symptoms or clinical indications of hypoxia rather than the nailbed angle alone.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Vellus hair is fine, short, and lightly pigmented hair that covers most of the body. It is not typically associated with the effects of hair dye or chemical treatments. Excess vellus hair would be unusual in this context and is not related to the typical outcomes of hair dyeing.
B. Fine, thin, and limp hair can be a result of chemical damage from hair dyeing and other treatments. Hair that has been subjected to frequent dyeing and chemical processing can lose its strength and texture, becoming weaker and less resilient. This finding is consistent with the impact of repeated hair dyeing.
C. A receding front hairline is typically associated with genetic factors and androgenic alopecia (pattern baldness) rather than the effects of hair dyeing. Although hair loss can be influenced by various factors, including chemicals, a receding hairline is not a direct consequence of dyeing hair.
D. Coarse, dry, and brittle hair is a common result of frequent chemical treatments, including hair dyeing. Chemicals in hair dyes can strip moisture from the hair, leading to a rough texture, breakage, and brittleness. This finding is consistent with long-term use of hair dye and chemical processing.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Skin elasticity is assessed by pinching the skin to see how quickly it returns to its normal position, which is often done to evaluate hydration status or the presence of dehydration. While skin elasticity is an important overall assessment of skin health, it is not directly related to the assessment of erythema.
B. Palpating the erythematous area for warmth and swelling is a crucial follow-up assessment. Erythema (redness of the skin) can be a sign of inflammation or infection, and the presence of warmth and swelling can help determine if the area is inflamed or if there might be an underlying infection.
C. Oxygen saturation measurements assess the level of oxygen in the blood, typically using a pulse oximeter. While oxygen saturation is important for assessing overall respiratory and circulatory health, it is not directly related to evaluating the cause or characteristics of erythema. Therefore, this would not be the most relevant follow-up assessment for a red area on the skin.
D. Observing the appearance of the nailbeds can provide information about overall circulation and oxygenation, but it is not directly related to assessing a localized area of erythema on the skin. Changes in the nailbeds can indicate systemic conditions but would not provide specific information about the erythematous area in question.
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.
