The nurse is assessing a patient with suspected psoriasis. What is the primary assessment technique used to diagnose psoriasis?

Explanation: The Auspitz sign refers to the appearance of tiny bleeding points when the scales on psoriatic plaques are removed or scraped. This sign is a characteristic feature of psoriasis and helps differentiate it from other skin conditions.

Incorrect choices: a. Moist, oozing skin lesions: Moist, oozing lesions are not typical of psoriasis. Psoriasis plaques are dry and scaly in nature.

b. Dark, hyperpigmented patches: Hyperpigmentation is not a characteristic feature of psoriasis. Psoriatic plaques are typically erythematous (red) with silvery-white scales.

d. Translucent, fluid-filled blisters: Translucent, fluid-filled blisters are not typically associated with psoriasis. This description is more consistent with a condition called pemphigus, not psoriasis.

Explanation: The primary assessment technique used to diagnose psoriasis is a physical examination of the skin. The characteristic red, raised patches with silver scales are indicative of psoriasis. While additional tests like skin biopsy may be used to confirm the diagnosis, the initial diagnosis is based on the visual appearance of the skin lesions.

Incorrect choices: a. A skin biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis of psoriasis, but it is not the primary assessment technique used to diagnose the condition.

b. Blood tests may be conducted to rule out other conditions or assess for systemic involvement, but they are not the primary method of diagnosing psoriasis.

d. MRI is not a diagnostic tool for psoriasis. It may be used in certain cases to assess joint involvement in psoriatic arthritis, but it does not diagnose psoriasis itself.