A nurse is performing a skin assessment on a client who has a dark skin. Which one of the following locations on the client’s body should the nurse observe to access for jaundice?
Face
Shoulders
Palm of the hands
Sclera
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason:
Face is incorrect: Facial skin colour can vary for many reasons, but it may not be the best indicator of jaundice in individuals with dark skin.
Choice B reason
Shoulders is incorrect: The shoulders are not typically indicative of jaundice.
Choice C reason:
Palm of the hands is incorrect: While the palm of the hands can sometimes show yellowing in cases of jaundice, it is less reliable than observing the sclera.
Choice D reason:
Sclera is the best location. In individuals with darker skin tones, yellowish discoloration of the skin due to jaundice can be more challenging to detect. However, the sclera of the eyes can still show noticeable yellowing, making it a reliable location for assessing jaundice in individuals with both light and dark skin.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is {"dropdown-group-1":"B","dropdown-group-2":"D"}
Explanation
The client is at highest risk for developing hypocalcemia as evidenced by the total calcium level of 8.0 mg/dL (normal range 9.0 to 10.5 mg/dL).
Explanation:
After a total thyroidectomy, there is a risk of hypocalcemia due to potential damage or removal of the parathyroid glands, which regulate calcium levels in the body. The laboratory result indicating a total calcium level of 8.0 mg/dL, which is below the normal range, supports this risk. Hypocalcemia can lead to symptoms such as tingling, muscle cramps, or more severe complications like cardiac arrhythmias if not addressed promptly.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A radial pulse is the pulse felt at the wrist, where the radial artery runs along the thumb side of the forearm. It is one of the most common sites for measuring a person's heart rate⁴.
To measure a radial pulse, the examiner should place two or three fingers over the radial artery, just below the wrist crease, and apply gentle pressure until a pulsation is felt. The examiner should not use the thumb, as it has its own pulse and may interfere with the accuracy of the measurement. The examiner should count the number of beats for 15, 30, or 60 seconds, depending on the regularity and rate of the pulse³⁵.
In the picture, the unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) is using the thumb to measure the radial pulse, which is incorrect. The practical nurse (PN) should demonstrate the correct pulse site to the UAP and explain why using the thumb is not appropriate. This will help to ensure that the UAP obtains an accurate and reliable pulse rate for the client.
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