A client asks a nurse to look at a raised lesion on the skin that has been present for about 5 years. Which is an "ABCD" characteristic of malignant melanoma?
Asymmetrical shape
Diameter less than 6mm
Color is uniform
Borders well demarcated
The Correct Answer is A
A) Asymmetrical shape: One of the key "ABCD" characteristics of malignant melanoma is asymmetry. Melanomas often have an irregular shape where one half does not match the other, unlike benign moles, which are typically symmetrical. This characteristic helps in distinguishing malignant lesions from benign ones.
B) Diameter less than 6mm: Malignant melanomas are often larger than 6 mm in diameter, especially as they progress. While smaller lesions can still be malignant, a diameter less than 6 mm is not a distinguishing feature for melanoma. Typically, melanomas are identified as growing larger over time.
C) Color is uniform: Malignant melanomas usually exhibit multiple colors or uneven pigmentation rather than uniform color. Uniform color is more characteristic of benign moles. Melanomas can show a mix of colors, including shades of brown, black, and sometimes red or white.
D) Borders well demarcated: Malignant melanoma often has irregular, not well-defined borders. The edges of a melanoma are usually uneven or not clearly defined, unlike benign moles, which typically have smooth, well-demarcated borders.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Rationale:
A) Peripheral Pulses: Peripheral pulses are assessed by palpating the pulse points, such as the radial or dorsalis pedis pulse, to evaluate the strength and regularity of the pulse. This assessment is not related to pressing the skin and observing it for indentation.
B) Skin Temperature: Skin temperature is assessed by palpating the skin with the back of the hand or fingers to detect warmth or coolness. This method does not involve pressing with the thumb and assessing for indentation.
C) Pitting Edema: Pitting edema is assessed by applying pressure to the skin over a bony area, such as the tibia or ankle, and then observing the skin's response after releasing the pressure. The presence of a pit or indentation that remains after the pressure is removed indicates pitting edema, which is a sign of fluid retention.
D) Capillary Refill: Capillary refill is assessed by pressing down on the nail bed or the skin and then observing how quickly the color returns after releasing the pressure. This test measures peripheral circulation and is different from the assessment for pitting edema.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Hypoxia: Although the client's oxygen saturation is slightly decreased at 95% on room air, it is not critically low. Hypoxia could be a concern, but it is secondary to other more immediate issues, such as hypotension, that might be causing the low oxygen saturation.
B) Anemia: The client’s hemoglobin and hematocrit levels are low, indicating anemia. While anemia is a significant concern, it does not pose an immediate threat compared to hypotension, which can lead to more severe complications if not addressed promptly.
C) Hypotension: The client’s blood pressure is notably low at 82/58 mm Hg. Hypotension can lead to inadequate perfusion of vital organs and may be a result of or contribute to other issues such as sepsis or significant blood loss. Immediate attention to correcting hypotension is crucial to prevent further complications.
D) Pneumonia: The client presents with symptoms suggestive of pneumonia, including a productive cough, fever, and elevated white blood cell count. While pneumonia is a critical condition that requires treatment, addressing hypotension is a more urgent priority as it directly impacts the client's circulatory stability and overall well-being.
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