When performing a skin and nail exam on an older adult female client, the nurse notes that she has longitudinal ridges on her fingernails. What does this finding indicate?

An expected variation.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Fungal infection.

Psoriasis.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

A.   Longitudinal ridges on the fingernails are a common finding in older adults and often do not indicate any underlying health problems. These ridges may develop due to normal aging processes as the rate of nail growth slows.
B.   While COPD can cause changes in the nails, such as clubbing, longitudinal ridges are not typically associated with this condition. COPD is more likely to cause cyanosis and other signs related to poor oxygenation.
C.   A fungal infection usually causes discoloration, thickening, or brittleness in nails, but not longitudinal ridges. Fungal infections would likely affect the overall appearance of the nail rather than causing isolated ridges.
D.   Psoriasis can cause pitting, scaling, or thickening of the nails, but longitudinal ridges are not characteristic of this condition. Psoriasis typically affects the skin more than the nails, though it can lead to changes in nail structure.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. The client should refrain from eating or drinking for other procedures but not specifically for an abdominal examination unless indicated for tests like ultrasounds.
B. A prone position is not necessary for an abdominal exam; lying on the back is preferred.
C. The client should not hold their breath during the abdominal exam unless asked to assist with specific maneuvers.
D. Having the bladder empty before the examination reduces discomfort and allows for better visualization of the abdominal organs.

A. Sudden onset of severe anxiety, fear, and concern. B. Periumbilical pain localizing to right lower quadrant. C. Diffuse abdominal pain with elevated neutrophil count. D. Anorexia progressing to nausea, vomiting, and fever.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. While anxiety and fear can accompany many medical conditions, they are not typically associated with appendicitis. Appendicitis is characterized by physical symptoms like pain and digestive disturbances rather than emotional symptoms.
B. Periumbilical pain that shifts to the right lower quadrant is the classic presentation of appendicitis. As the inflammation progresses, pain tends to move from the mid-abdomen to the lower right abdomen, which supports a diagnosis of appendicitis.
C. Diffuse abdominal pain is less specific and could indicate a variety of conditions. While an elevated neutrophil count can suggest infection or inflammation, the localized pain seen in appendicitis is a more distinguishing feature.
D. These symptoms are also common in appendicitis, as it typically presents with loss of appetite, nausea, and fever. However, the hallmark symptom is localized pain, particularly in the right lower quadrant, making B a stronger indication.

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When performing a skin and nail exam on an older adult female client, the nurse notes that she has longitudinal ridges on her fingernails. What does this finding indicate?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

When preparing a female client for an abdominal examination, the nurse should provide her with which instruction?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

The nurse assesses a young adult female who was brought to the emergency department (ED) by her boyfriend because she has not been feeling well all day and he believes she is getting worse. Which finding supports the nurse's suspicion that the client is experiencing appendicitis?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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