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.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) Size:
When assessing lymph nodes, noting the size is crucial as enlarged lymph nodes can indicate infection, inflammation, or malignancy. Size helps in determining the extent and severity of the underlying condition.
B) Consistency:
The consistency of lymph nodes (whether they are hard, rubbery, or soft) provides important diagnostic information. For instance, hard lymph nodes may suggest malignancy, while soft nodes might indicate an infection.
C) Shape:
Recording the shape of lymph nodes is essential in the assessment process. Regular, oval, or round shapes can be normal, while irregularly shaped nodes might be concerning and warrant further investigation.
D) Color:
Color is not typically assessed or noted when examining lymph nodes. Lymph nodes are internal structures, and their color cannot be directly observed without invasive procedures. The focus is usually on palpable characteristics like size, consistency, and shape.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Nail Beds:
While peripheral cyanosis can cause bluish discoloration of the nail beds, central cyanosis is more indicative of systemic hypoxemia and is best assessed in areas with rich blood supply, such as the oral mucosa.
B. Sclera:
The sclera is more commonly used to assess for jaundice (yellowing) rather than cyanosis. Cyanosis is not typically visible in the sclera.
C. Oral Mucosa:
Central cyanosis is most accurately assessed in areas with high vascularization, such as the oral mucosa. This area provides a clear indication of oxygenation status and can reveal hypoxemia more reliably than peripheral sites.
D. Palms:
Similar to the nail beds, the palms can show signs of peripheral cyanosis but are not the primary site for assessing central cyanosis. The oral mucosa remains the best site for this assessment.
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