The nurse knows that the rationale for using deep palpation during an abdominal assessment is to determine which of the following?

Choice A reason: Normal pupil findings include equal size (2–5 mm) and brisk reaction to light bilaterally. A fully dilated, nonreactive right pupil with a reactive left pupil indicates a neurological abnormality, not a normal finding, as it suggests significant brain dysfunction.

Choice B reason: Rechecking findings is prudent, but the described pupil changes—unilateral dilation and nonreactivity—are classic signs of a serious condition. Delaying action by only rechecking could miss critical intervention timing, as these findings strongly indicate a neurological emergency.

Choice C reason: A unilaterally dilated, nonreactive pupil with a normal contralateral pupil suggests increased intracranial pressure, often from a hematoma or swelling compressing the oculomotor nerve (Cranial Nerve III). This causes pupil dilation and loss of light reflex, requiring urgent intervention.

Choice D reason: Brainstem injury typically causes bilateral pupil changes, such as fixed, pinpoint, or dilated pupils, due to damage to brainstem nuclei. The unilateral findings here are more indicative of focal pressure (e.g., hematoma) than diffuse brainstem injury, making this less likely.

Choice A reason: Low parity (few pregnancies) is not a primary risk factor for cervical cancer; high parity may be. Multiple sexual partners increase HPV exposure, the main cause, so this is incorrect.

Choice B reason: Endometriosis affects the uterus, not the cervix, and isn’t linked to cervical cancer. HPV from multiple partners is the key risk, so this is incorrect for the discussion.

Choice C reason: Multiple sexual partners increase the risk of HPV infection, the primary cause of cervical cancer. This is the most significant risk factor, making it the correct focus for teaching teens.

Choice D reason: Obesity is linked to some cancers but not strongly to cervical cancer. HPV exposure via multiple partners is the dominant risk, so this is incorrect for the nurse’s discussion.