When performing an otoscope examination for a 2-year-old child, which of the following techniques is correct?

A. The potassium level of 3.6 mEq/L is within the normal range (3.5 to 5 mEq/L), so there is no immediate concern. There is no abnormality in this lab value that needs to be addressed in this context.
B. The client's prealbumin level is 10 mg/dL, which is below the normal range (15 to 36 mg/dL). This is concerning as it indicates poor nutritional status, which can affect wound healing. Prealbumin is a sensitive indicator of nutritional status and is important in assessing the client's ability to heal from a pressure injury.
C. The client's history of diabetes mellitus is significant in this case. Diabetes can affect circulation, impair wound healing, and increase the risk of infections. Poor blood sugar control can contribute to delayed wound healing, so this is an important factor to consider.
D. While hyperlipidemia can contribute to cardiovascular issues, it is less directly related to wound healing in this case compared to diabetes mellitus. Although important to manage, it is not the most pressing issue in this context.

E. At this time, the wound shows no signs of infection. The surrounding skin is inflamed and red, which could be a sign of irritation or early pressure injury development, but there is no indication of infection (such as purulent drainage, increased pain, or fever) noted in the nursing notes.
F. The client's pedal pulse in the left foot is weak (1+), which indicates decreased perfusion to that extremity. Impaired circulation is a concern, especially in a client with diabetes, as it can further complicate wound healing. This is a critical factor to monitor closely.
G. The client's fasting blood glucose is elevated at 186 mg/dL, above the normal range (74 to 106 mg/dL). Elevated blood glucose levels can impair wound healing and increase the risk of infection, particularly in a client with diabetes.

A. A lesion that is asymmetrical is concerning, as melanoma and other skin cancers tend to be irregular in shape. This is an important warning sign.
B. Red and black coloration in a lesion is concerning because it can indicate changes in blood flow or necrosis, both of which are suspicious for malignancy.
C. A flat lesion does not automatically indicate a problem, as many benign lesions, like moles, can be flat. The texture or elevation of the lesion is not always a concern unless there are other risk factors.
D. A lesion larger than 6 mm is concerning, especially if it is changing in size or shape. Larger lesions should be evaluated by a healthcare provider for potential malignancy.
E. Round edges are typically a characteristic of benign lesions, so this is not as concerning unless there are other warning signs present.