The nurse is assessing a client with a history of obesity. Upon palpation of the client's skin, the nurse notes diaphoresis. The client reports that, "it is always like that." The nurse should thoroughly inspect the skin on what part of the client's body?
Groin
Heels
Elbows
Toes
The Correct Answer is A
A. The groin is correct because skin folds in obese clients are prone to excessive moisture, which increases the risk of fungal or bacterial infections such as intertrigo. The nurse should inspect these areas for redness, irritation, or signs of infection.
B. The heels are at risk for pressure injuries but are not typically associated with excessive moisture or diaphoresis.
C. The elbows are not a common site for moisture retention and are not a priority for inspection in this case.
D. The toes can be prone to fungal infections (e.g., athlete’s foot), but the primary concern in an obese client with diaphoresis is the skin folds, particularly in the groin and under the breasts.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Delaying follow-up for two weeks is inappropriate when symptoms suggest a possible serious metabolic disorder, such as diabetes. Immediate testing is needed.
B. Simply documenting the findings as benign is incorrect because hyperpigmentation in these areas (acanthosis nigricans) can be a sign of insulin resistance, which requires further evaluation.
C. Performing a random blood sugar test per order is correct. The symptoms of fatigue, thirst, and frequent urination, along with acanthosis nigricans, strongly suggest diabetes mellitus or insulin resistance. A random blood glucose test can help determine if the client has hyperglycemia.
D. While certain malignancies can be associated with acanthosis nigricans, diabetes is a more common cause. Asking about cancer history is not the priority intervention.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Reviewing sodium and bicarbonate levels is not the most immediate action. While these lab values may provide useful information, they do not directly assess the suspected condition.
B. Assessing for peptic ulcer disease is incorrect because a tight, distended abdomen with visible arterioles (caput medusae) is more indicative of liver disease, such as cirrhosis or portal hypertension, rather than a gastric ulcer.
C. Assessing the client’s nutritional status may be important, but it is not the priority in this situation. Malnutrition can be a consequence of liver disease, but the nurse should first focus on identifying the underlying condition.
D. Assessing the client for other signs and symptoms of liver disease is correct. A distended abdomen and visible arterioles suggest possible ascites and portal hypertension, both of which are common in liver disease. Further assessment for jaundice, hepatic encephalopathy, or changes in liver enzyme levels would be appropriate.
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