While working in the Emergency department a Rapid response nurse is evaluating a patient in acute respiratory failure after a motor vehicle crash. Which of the following areas should the nurse evaluate as the most reliable indicator of central cyanosis?

Soles of the feet

Oral mucosa

Ear lobes

Conjunctivae

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

(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.

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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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.

A. diarrhea B. diaphoresis C. fainting D. vomiting

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

(a) Diarrhea: Diarrhea is an abnormal gastrointestinal response characterized by frequent, loose, or watery stools. It can be caused by infections, medications, or underlying gastrointestinal disorders. Pallor, or paleness of the skin, typically does not directly lead to diarrhea unless there are specific underlying conditions affecting both circulation and gastrointestinal function.

(b) Diaphoresis: Diaphoresis refers to excessive sweating, which can occur due to sympathetic nervous system activation, fever, or anxiety. While diaphoresis may be associated with conditions causing increased sympathetic activity, it is not directly related to pallor, which indicates reduced blood flow to the skin.

(c) Fainting: Pallor is often a sign of decreased blood flow to the skin, indicating potential hypoperfusion. If severe, this reduced circulation can lead to fainting (syncope) due to inadequate blood supply to the brain. Therefore, after noting pallor, the nurse should be prepared to manage the client for potential fainting episodes by ensuring safety and providing appropriate interventions.

(d) Vomiting: Vomiting is the forceful expulsion of stomach contents through the mouth and can be caused by various factors such as gastrointestinal irritation, infection, or systemic illnesses. Pallor does not directly cause vomiting, although severe systemic conditions affecting circulation could potentially lead to nausea and vomiting as part of a broader clinical picture.

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While working in the Emergency department a Rapid response nurse is evaluating a patient in acute respiratory failure after a motor vehicle crash. Which of the following areas should the nurse evaluate as the most reliable indicator of central cyanosis?

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