The nurse performs the action shown in this image during the assessment of a client. What is the nurse assessing?
Intercostal spaces
Lymph nodes
Skin Turgor
Carotid Pulse
The Correct Answer is C
A) Intercostal spaces:
Assessing intercostal spaces typically involves palpating or inspecting the area between the ribs to check for abnormalities such as retractions or tenderness, usually conducted with the client sitting or standing.
B) Lymph nodes:
Palpation of lymph nodes, such as in the cervical region, involves using fingertips to gently feel for enlarged or tender nodes. This examination focuses on areas like the neck, underarms, and groin.
C) Skin Turgor:
The image depicts a nurse pinching the skin, likely on the chest or forearm, which is a common method to assess skin turgor. Skin turgor evaluation helps determine hydration status; if the skin remains tented and returns slowly to its original position, it indicates dehydration.
D) Carotid Pulse:
Assessing the carotid pulse involves palpating the carotid artery along the side of the neck to evaluate the strength and rhythm of the pulse. This is typically done using the pads of the fingers, not by pinching the skin.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Acanthosis Nigricans:
Acanthosis nigricans is characterized by dark, velvety patches of skin, often found in body folds such as the neck, armpits, and groin. It does not present as the yellow discoloration seen in the photo.
B. Cyanosis:
Cyanosis is a bluish discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes due to inadequate oxygenation of the blood. The image shows yellow discoloration, not the blue tint associated with cyanosis.
C. Jaundice:
Jaundice is indicated by a yellowish tint to the skin and sclera due to elevated bilirubin levels, commonly associated with liver dysfunction. The photo clearly shows this yellow discoloration, consistent with jaundice, often seen in chronic alcoholics with liver disease.
D. Carotenemia:
Carotenemia presents as a yellow-orange discoloration of the skin, especially on the palms and soles, due to high levels of carotene in the blood. It does not typically affect the sclera, which differentiates it from jaundice. The uniform yellowing of the skin and eyes in the photo aligns more with jaundice.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
(a) Soles of the feet:
The soles of the feet are not considered the most reliable indicator of central cyanosis because peripheral areas can be affected by various factors, including temperature and circulation. Changes in color here might not accurately reflect central oxygenation status.
(b) Oral mucosa:
The oral mucosa is the most reliable indicator of central cyanosis because it reflects the oxygenation status of the central circulatory system. Cyanosis in this area indicates a significant drop in arterial oxygen saturation and is a more direct indicator of hypoxemia compared to peripheral sites.
(c) Ear lobes:
Ear lobes, like the soles of the feet, can be influenced by peripheral circulation and environmental factors. While cyanosis can be observed here, it is not as reliable as central sites like the oral mucosa for assessing systemic oxygenation.
(d) Conjunctivae:
The conjunctivae can show signs of cyanosis, but the oral mucosa is still a more sensitive and reliable indicator for central cyanosis. The oral mucosa provides a clear and consistent site to assess oxygenation in emergency situations.
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