The emergency service team brings a homeless client found lying in an alley to the emergency department. An assessment is performed, and the client is suspected of having frostbite of the hands.
Which finding would the nurse expect to note in this condition?
Red skin with edema in the nail beds.
Black fingertips surrounded by an erythematous rash.
A white appearance to the skin that is insensitive to touch.
A pink edematous hand.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
Red skin with edema in the nail beds is more indicative of a superficial injury or inflammation, such as cellulitis or a mild burn, rather than frostbite.
Choice B rationale
Black fingertips surrounded by an erythematous rash suggest gangrene or severe necrosis, which can occur in advanced stages of frostbite but is not an initial finding.
Choice C rationale
A white appearance to the skin that is insensitive to touch is a classic sign of frostbite. The lack of sensation is due to the freezing of tissues and nerves, and the white color indicates a lack of blood flow to the affected area.
Choice D rationale
A pink edematous hand is more indicative of a mild inflammatory response or early stages of frostbite before the tissue has frozen. It does not represent the more severe presentation of frostbite.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Loss of appetite is a common symptom of appendicitis due to the inflammation and irritation of the gastrointestinal tract. This symptom alone does not indicate an immediate need for intervention.
Choice B rationale
Nausea and vomiting are also common symptoms of appendicitis. The pain and inflammation can stimulate the vomiting center in the brain, leading to nausea. This symptom, while uncomfortable, does not require immediate intervention.
Choice C rationale
Pain that worsens with movement, such as positioning on the right side, is typical of appendicitis. This is due to the irritation of the peritoneum and the inflamed appendix. This symptom is expected and does not require immediate intervention.
Choice D rationale
The sudden disappearance of pain in a patient with appendicitis can indicate a rupture of the appendix. This is a medical emergency as it can lead to peritonitis, a severe and potentially life- threatening infection of the abdominal cavity. Immediate intervention is required to prevent complications.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Weak pedal pulses indicate vascular compromise, which is a complication of Buck’s traction. This can be caused by pressure on the tissues of the leg.
Choice B rationale
Complaints of leg discomfort are expected due to the traction and do not indicate a complication.
Choice C rationale
Toes that are warm and demonstrate brisk capillary refill are normal findings and do not indicate a complication.
Choice D rationale
Drainage at the pin sites is more relevant to skeletal traction, not Buck’s traction.
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