A nurse is performing a skin assessment on a client who has dark skin.
Which of the following locations on the client’s body should the nurse observe to assess for cyanosis?
Area of trauma.
Sacrum.
Shoulders.
Palms of the hands.
The Correct Answer is D
Cyanosis is a bluish discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes due to inadequate oxygenation of the blood. It is more difficult to detect in people who have dark skin, so the nurse should look for cyanosis in areas where the skin is thinner and the blood supply is richer, such as the palms of the hands, the lips, the gums, and around the eyes.
These areas are less affected by melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color.
Choice A is wrong because an area of trauma may have bruising or inflammation that can mask cyanosis.
Choice B is wrong because the sacrum is not a good site to assess for cyanosis in any skin tone, as it is prone to pressure ulcers and poor circulation.
Choice C is wrong because the shoulders are not a mucous membrane and may have more melanin than other areas of the body.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
These are signs of severe dehydration in an infant, which can be life-threatening and should be reported to the provider immediately. The infant may need intravenous fluids and electrolytes to restore hydration and prevent complications.
Choice B is wrong because a temperature of 38° C (100.4° F) and pulse rate of 124/min are not abnormal for an infant and do not indicate severe dehydration. These are common findings in an infant who has gastroenteritis, which is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines caused by a virus, bacteria, or parasite.
Choice C is wrong because decreased appetite and irritability are also common findings in an infant who has gastroenteritis, but they do not indicate severe dehydration. The nurse should encourage oral rehydration with fluids such as breast milk, formula, or oral electrolyte solution.
Choice D is wrong because pale skin and a 24-hr fluid deficit of 30 mL are not signs of severe dehydration in an infant.
A fluid deficit of 30 mL is less than 1 oz and is not significant for an infant who weighs about 10 kg (22 lbs). A fluid deficit of more than 10% of body weight would indicate severe dehydration.
Normal ranges for vital signs in infants are as follows:
- Temperature: 36.5° C to 37.5° C (97.7° F to 99.5° F)
- Pulse rate: 100 to 160/min
- Respiratory rate: 30 to 60/min
- Blood pressure: 65/41 to 100/50 mm Hg
Normal ranges for fluid intake and output in infants are as follows:
- Fluid intake: 100 to 150 mL/kg/day
- Fluid output: 1 to 2 mL/kg/hr
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Measuring the arm circumference above the insertion site daily is appropriate. When planning care for a client scheduled to receive a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) in the arm, it is appropriate for the nurse to include measuring the arm circumference above the insertion site daily. This intervention is essential to monitor for any signs of complications, such as edema or swelling, which could indicate thrombosis or infiltration at the insertion site.
Choice B reason:
Administering sedation Administering sedation is not a routine intervention for a PICC insertion procedure is inappropriate. Sedation might be considered for certain procedures, but it is not typically used for PICC insertions. PICC insertions are generally performed with local anaesthesia at the insertion site.
Choice C reason:
Scheduling an MRI post procedure to verify placement An MRI is not typically used to verify the placement of a PICC. The placement of a PICC is usually confirmed using X-ray or other imaging methods that can visualize the catheter's location within the central veins. Post-procedure verification of PICC placement is essential to ensure proper positioning and to prevent complications.
Choice D reason:
Using gauze to secure an arm board to the involved extremity Using gauze to secure an arm board to the involved extremity is not a common practice for securing a PICC. After a PICC insertion, a securement device specifically designed for PICCs is typically used to secure the catheter in place and prevent movement.
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