The nurse is teaching a client about seeking medical attention for suspected melanoma skin cancer lesions. The client would demonstrate to the nurse an understanding of teaching by stating "1 will seek medical attention if the mole has:
single color throughout
diameter smaller than 2mm.
has uneven or irregular borders.
Is symmetrical in shape."
The Correct Answer is C
A) Single color throughout:
A mole that is a single, consistent color is typically not a concern for melanoma. However, one of the key warning signs of melanoma is a mole that has multiple colors or shades, such as tan, brown, black, or even red or blue. The presence of more than one color in a mole can indicate melanoma, and the client should be advised to seek medical attention if the mole has varied colors.
B) Diameter smaller than 2mm:
A mole that is smaller than 2mm in diameter is typically not a concern for melanoma. Melanomas are often larger than 6mm in diameter, about the size of a pencil eraser, though smaller melanomas can also occur. A mole smaller than 2mm is usually considered benign, but any change in size, shape, or color, regardless of the starting size, should be evaluated.
C) Has uneven or irregular borders:
One of the primary warning signs of melanoma is the presence of irregular or uneven borders on a mole. Normal moles typically have smooth, even borders, while moles with jagged, blurred, or irregular edges are more likely to be melanoma. The client should seek medical attention if they notice any moles with irregular borders, as this could be a sign of malignancy.
D) Is symmetrical in shape:
A mole that is symmetrical (both halves are the same size and shape) is generally not a concern for melanoma. In contrast, asymmetry (when one half of the mole does not match the other half) is a key warning sign for melanoma. A mole that lacks symmetry should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A"]
Explanation
A) There are no obvious symptoms or problems: Ovarian cancer is often referred to as the "silent killer" because it tends to develop without noticeable symptoms in the early stages. When symptoms do appear, they are often vague and nonspecific, such as bloating, abdominal discomfort, or changes in bowel habits. By the time ovarian cancer is diagnosed, it is frequently at an advanced stage, making it more difficult to treat effectively. This lack of early, clear symptoms contributes significantly to the high death rate associated with the disease.
B) Radiation therapy is ineffective because the ovaries are located so deep within the pelvis: While ovarian cancer is located deep within the pelvis, radiation therapy can still be effective for certain types of tumors. However, the primary reason for high death rates is not the location of the ovaries, but the late-stage diagnosis and difficulty in detecting the cancer early.
C) The causative cancer cell is resistant to chemotherapy or radiation: While some ovarian cancer cells may exhibit resistance to treatment, this is not the main reason for the high mortality rate. The real issue is the lack of early detection, as ovarian cancer is often diagnosed when it has already spread beyond the ovaries. Early-stage ovarian cancer may be more responsive to treatment, but by the time symptoms are noticeable, the cancer is often advanced, which limits the effectiveness of chemotherapy and radiation.
D) Ovarian cancer occurs primarily among women over age 70 that also have other complicating health problems: Although the incidence of ovarian cancer increases with age, particularly after age 60, it is not the primary factor contributing to high death rates. Many women diagnosed with ovarian cancer are relatively healthy except for the cancer itself.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) Determine when the patient last ate and call for spiritual advisor:
While it is important to gather a comprehensive history, including when the patient last ate, and to provide emotional support such as calling a spiritual advisor, these actions are not the priority in this situation. The immediate concern is the patient's physical condition and addressing the potential trauma to the chest and abdominal organs. Bowel sounds in the chest suggest a serious injury, such as a diaphragmatic rupture, which requires immediate surgical intervention.
B) Assess vital signs and immediately notify the trauma surgeon:
Hearing bowel sounds in the chest is a strong indication of a diaphragmatic injury, possibly a rupture, which can lead to the bowel being displaced into the chest cavity. This is a life-threatening emergency that can result in respiratory distress, impaired organ function, and infection. The nurse should assess vital signs to determine if the patient is stable or in shock and then immediately notify the trauma surgeon to facilitate urgent surgical intervention. Immediate surgical repair is necessary to prevent further complications such as respiratory compromise or sepsis.
C) Request an order for a chest x-ray and stop IV fluids:
A chest x-ray may be ordered later to confirm the presence of diaphragmatic injury or other chest trauma, but the priority action is to notify the trauma surgeon immediately. Stopping IV fluids is not appropriate in this situation; the patient likely needs continued fluid resuscitation, especially if they are in shock or have significant blood loss from their traumatic injuries.
D) Medicate the patient's pain and obtain consent for surgery:
Pain management is important for the patient’s comfort, but surgical intervention should not be delayed while obtaining consent. The trauma surgeon should be notified immediately, and surgery should be expedited without waiting for consent. In trauma cases, consent for life-saving procedures may be implied if the patient is unconscious or unable to provide consent due to the urgency of the situation.
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.
