An adolescent female client comes to the clinic troubled by breast tenderness before her menstrual periods. On examination, the nurse notes generalized lumpiness of both breasts with no discrete masses and no nipple discharge. Which action should the nurse take?
Suggest that the client schedule a mammogram after her next menstrual period.
Explain to the client that an ultrasound of the breast will likely be necessary.
Assure the client that her breasts are normal, and advise annual evaluations.
Request a return visit after her menstrual period for a breast exam re-check.
The Correct Answer is C
Answer: C. Assure the client that her breasts are normal, and advise annual evaluations.
Rationale:
A. Suggest that the client schedule a mammogram after her next menstrual period:
A mammogram is generally not indicated for adolescents unless there are specific concerns such as a family history of breast cancer or the presence of abnormal findings. Given the client's age and the findings of generalized lumpiness without discrete masses, a mammogram would not be the most appropriate action at this stage.
B. Explain to the client that an ultrasound of the breast will likely be necessary:
An ultrasound is typically used for further evaluation if discrete masses are found or if there are unusual characteristics in the breast tissue. In this case, the generalized lumpiness is likely related to normal physiological changes, making an ultrasound unnecessary at this time.
C. Assure the client that her breasts are normal, and advise annual evaluations:
The findings of generalized lumpiness and tenderness before menstruation are consistent with normal physiological changes associated with the menstrual cycle, often due to hormonal fluctuations. Providing reassurance and advising annual evaluations is appropriate, as it addresses the client's concerns and promotes confidence in her breast health without unnecessary interventions.
D. Request a return visit after her menstrual period for a breast exam re-check:
While a follow-up can be beneficial, it may not be necessary in this case since the findings are typical of normal breast tissue changes associated with the menstrual cycle. Reassuring the client and encouraging annual evaluations is a more effective approach than suggesting an unnecessary follow-up visit.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Ecchymosis refers to the discoloration of the skin resulting from bleeding underneath, typically due to bruising. While ecchymosis can occur for various reasons, the use of oral anticoagulants increases the risk of bleeding and bruising. Therefore, the nurse should further assess the client's use of oral anticoagulants to determine if it is contributing to the observed ecchymosis.
B. Works in a day care center:
Working in a day care center may expose the client to various infectious agents, but it is not directly associated with the development of ecchymosis.
C. Recently had dental surgery:
While dental surgery can sometimes result in minor bleeding and bruising, it is less likely to cause widespread ecchymosis unless there are underlying bleeding disorders or complications.
D. Adheres to a gluten-free diet:
Adhering to a gluten-free diet is not directly related to the development of ecchymosis. However, if the client has celiac disease or another condition requiring a gluten-free diet, the nurse should explore the potential for malabsorption or nutritional deficiencies, which could indirectly contribute to bleeding tendencies.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Looking at the client from the side, observe the size and shape of the chest wall:
This action is more related to inspecting the physical appearance and symmetry of the chest wall but does not assess tactile fremitus.
B) Use the fingertips to compress tissue over the lungs for evidence of a crackling sensation:
This action may be more relevant for assessing subcutaneous emphysema (crepitus) but is not the correct method for assessing tactile fremitus.
C) Place the palm of the hand on the chest wall to feel vibrations while the client speaks:
This is the correct action to assess tactile fremitus. By placing the palm of the hand on various areas of the chest wall while the client repeats a phrase such as "ninety-nine," the nurse can feel for vibrations. Increased tactile fremitus can indicate consolidation, as seen in pneumonia.
D) Use a stethoscope to listen to and compare breath sounds anteriorly and posteriorly:
This action involves auscultation, which is important for assessing breath sounds but does not assess tactile fremitus directly.
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