What data collected during an integumentary assessment should cause the nurse to be concerned that a client is at risk for the development of skin cancer? (Select all that apply.)
Age 55 years
Yellow palms of the hands
Light-colored hair
Actinic keratosis on face
Poor skin turgor
Correct Answer : A,C,D
A) Age 55 years:
Advancing age is a risk factor for skin cancer. As individuals age, the cumulative exposure to UV radiation increases, and the skin's ability to repair damage decreases, leading to a higher risk of skin cancer.
B) Yellow palms of the hands:
Yellow palms are typically associated with conditions like carotenemia or jaundice, not skin cancer. This symptom does not indicate an increased risk of developing skin cancer.
C) Light-colored hair:
Individuals with light-colored hair, especially those with fair skin and light eyes, are at higher risk for skin cancer. They often have less melanin, which provides some protection against UV radiation, increasing their susceptibility to damage from the sun.
D) Actinic keratosis on face:
Actinic keratosis is a precancerous skin lesion caused by long-term sun exposure. It is considered a significant risk factor for developing squamous cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer. Presence of actinic keratosis should prompt careful monitoring and possibly treatment.
E) Poor skin turgor:
Poor skin turgor typically indicates dehydration or aging but is not directly related to an increased risk of skin cancer. It is more of a general indicator of skin and overall health rather than a specific risk factor for cancer.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) "I do not eat salty foods and snacks": This statement indicates the client's dietary habits and, while it can impact overall health, it does not necessarily require immediate validation unless there is reason to doubt its accuracy or it is related to a specific health concern being addressed.
B) "My rings are not fitting on my fingers like they usually do": This statement suggests a change in the client's physical condition, likely indicating fluid retention or edema. This symptom requires validation as it could signify an underlying issue such as heart failure, kidney problems, or other medical conditions that need prompt attention.
C) "I exercise about 20 minutes a day by walking": This statement reflects the client's physical activity routine. While it's important for assessing overall health and fitness, it does not demand immediate validation unless related to a specific health issue.
D) "High blood pressure is present in my mother & grandmother": This statement provides valuable family history information, which is important for assessing genetic risk factors. However, it does not require urgent validation compared to physical changes indicating potential health problems.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Mucous Membranes:
In clients with dark skin, mucous membranes such as the lips, tongue, and gums are the best sites to assess for cyanosis. These areas have less pigmentation and are more vascular, allowing for a more accurate evaluation of oxygenation and the presence of cyanosis.
B. Dorsal surface of the hand:
The dorsal surface of the hand can be used to assess for cyanosis in lighter-skinned individuals, but it is less reliable in dark-skinned clients due to the higher melanin content, which can obscure the bluish tint indicative of cyanosis.
C. Dorsal surface of the foot:
Similar to the dorsal surface of the hand, the dorsal surface of the foot is not an ideal site for assessing cyanosis in clients with dark skin. The presence of melanin can make it difficult to detect changes in skin color.
D. Pinnae of the ears:
The pinnae of the ears are also not the best sites for assessing cyanosis in dark-skinned clients. These areas can be highly pigmented, which can mask the bluish discoloration associated with cyanosis. The mucous membranes remain the most reliable site for this assessment.
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