A nurse is assessing a client who has a new skin lesion that has a wavy border. The nurse should document the lesion using which of the following descriptions?
Annular
Circinate
Coalesced
Serpiginous
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason:
Annular lesions are ring-shaped with a clear center, which does not describe a lesion with a wavy border. This term is typically used for lesions like ringworm, which present as circular rashes with normal skin in the center.
Choice B reason:
Circinate lesions are also circular but are not characterized by a wavy border. They are similar to annular lesions but often have a more rounded edge and are associated with conditions like psoriasis.
Choice C reason:
Coalesced lesions refer to multiple lesions that have merged to form a larger one. While they can have irregular borders, 'coalesced' does not specifically describe the wavy nature of the border.
Choice D reason:
Serpiginous lesions have a wavy or snake-like border, which matches the description provided by the nurse. This term is often used for parasitic infections, such as cutaneous larva migrains, which create a trail-like pattern on the skin.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
While the white blood cell (WBC) count is important in assessing the immune system's ability to fight infection, a WBC of 5,000/mm³ is within the normal range (4,500 to 11,000 WBCs/mm³). Therefore, it is not the most critical value for a nurse to prioritize in the care of an HIV patient.
Choice B reason:
A platelet count of 150,000/mm³ is also within the normal range (150,000 to 450,000 platelets/mm³). Although thrombocytopenia can occur in HIV, this value does not indicate an immediate concern for the nurse to prioritize.
Choice C reason:
A positive Western blot test confirms the presence of HIV antibodies, which is indicative of HIV infection. However, this is a diagnostic result rather than a laboratory value that reflects the current status of the patient's immune function or disease progression.
Choice D reason:
The CD4-T-cell count is a critical laboratory value for assessing the immune function of a patient with HIV. A count of 180 cells/mm³ is below the normal range of 500 to 1,200 cells/mm³ and indicates a significantly weakened immune system, placing the patient at risk for opportunistic infections. This value is a priority as it guides treatment decisions and the need for prophylaxis against opportunistic infections.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Asking about dietary changes is relevant to a skin assessment, as diet can influence skin health. However, this question does not require intervention unless the dietary changes are directly related to the skin condition. If the client has been advised to follow a specific diet for their skin condition, then the nurse should ensure compliance with that diet.
Choice B reason:
This question shifts the focus from the skin condition’s characteristics and impact to general coping mechanisms. It does not help determine the lesion’s symptoms, triggers, or functional effects, and thus does not align with a targeted skin assessment framework, requiring intervention.
Choice C reason:
Exploring how the skin issue affects the client’s feelings reveals psychosocial stressors and the emotional burden of living with a visible condition. This insight supports holistic care planning, adherence strategies, and therapeutic rapport.
Choice D reason:
Sleep disturbances can be a consequence of skin conditions, especially if they involve itching or pain. This question is pertinent to the assessment and does not require intervention. The information gathered can help in formulating a comprehensive care plan that addresses the client's comfort and sleep quality.
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