A nurse cares for a patient who has a serum potassium of 7.5 mEq/L and is exhibiting cardiovascular changes. Which should the nurse implement first?

A. Smoking causes you to cough frequently, and the wound might get infected by sputum.

While smoking can indeed contribute to respiratory issues like coughing, linking this directly to wound infection by sputum is not the most accurate explanation of how smoking affects wound healing. The primary concern with smoking and wound healing lies in its effects on circulation and tissue oxygenation rather than the risk of infection due to coughing.

B. Nicotine causes vasoconstriction, so your wound might not get enough blood flow to heal.

This is the best response among the options provided. Nicotine, a major component of cigarette smoke, is known to constrict blood vessels (vasoconstriction). This constriction reduces blood flow to the wound site, leading to decreased delivery of oxygen and nutrients necessary for proper wound healing. It addresses the direct physiological impact of smoking on wound healing and provides a clear explanation for the client.

C. Nicotine causes tar to build up in the wound, and it will impair healing.

While nicotine and other components of tobacco smoke can have detrimental effects on healing, particularly through vasoconstriction, the explanation about tar building up in the wound is not entirely accurate. Tar is more associated with lung damage from smoking rather than direct buildup in external wounds. Therefore, this response is less specific and may confuse the client about the actual mechanism of how smoking affects wound healing.

D. Smoking is bad, and you should stop right away.

While this response emphasizes the importance of smoking cessation, it lacks specificity in explaining how smoking impacts wound healing. Providing specific information about vasoconstriction due to nicotine, as mentioned in option B, would be more helpful in helping the client understand the direct effects of smoking on their chronic wound and why cessation is crucial.

A. Loose connective tissue:

Melanocytes are not typically found in loose connective tissue. Their primary location is within the epidermis, specifically in the basal layer, where they interact with keratinocytes to produce melanin and contribute to skin color. Loose connective tissue contains collagen and elastin fibers, as well as fibroblasts, but it does not house melanocytes.

B. Epidermis:

This is the correct answer. Melanocytes are primarily located in the basal layer of the epidermis, which is the deepest layer of the epidermis. These cells produce melanin, a pigment that helps protect the skin from UV radiation and determines skin color. Melanocytes are interspersed among keratinocytes in the epidermis and transfer melanin to keratinocytes to provide skin pigmentation.

C. Dermis:

The dermis is the layer of skin beneath the epidermis and consists of connective tissue, blood vessels, nerves, hair follicles, and sweat glands. While the dermis plays a crucial role in supporting and nourishing the epidermis, melanocytes are not primarily located in the dermis. They are confined to the basal layer of the epidermis.

D. Superficial fascia:

The superficial fascia, also known as the subcutaneous tissue or hypodermis, lies beneath the dermis and consists of adipose (fat) tissue and connective tissue. It provides insulation, energy storage, and cushioning for underlying structures. However, melanocytes are not typically found in the superficial fascia. They are restricted to the epidermis, specifically the basal layer, where they carry out their function of melanin production.