During assessment, the nurse would expect which part of the body to indicate central cyanosis in a client with a severe asthma attack?

A. Measure nerve function in the fingers:

Measuring nerve function typically involves different assessments, such as checking sensation or performing nerve conduction studies. The action in the image is not indicative of a nerve function test.

B. Monitor oxygen status:

Monitoring oxygen status is usually done with a pulse oximeter, which is placed on the finger but does not involve the manual action shown in the image. The image depicts a manual technique, not a pulse oximetry procedure.

C. Determine capillary refill:

The action shown in the image is a technique used to determine capillary refill time. The nurse presses on the nail bed until it blanches and then releases it to see how quickly the color returns. This assesses peripheral perfusion and can indicate circulatory status.

D. Assess finger range of motion:

Assessing finger range of motion involves moving the fingers through their full range of motion, such as flexing, extending, abducting, and adducting them. The action in the image does not reflect these movements and is more indicative of assessing capillary refill.

A) Location: Documenting the exact location of lesions is crucial for monitoring changes over time, assessing potential spread or resolution, and providing accurate information for future reference. This information helps in the diagnosis and in tracking the effectiveness of treatments.

B) Color: The color of lesions can provide important clues about their nature and cause. For example, red or inflamed lesions might indicate infection or irritation, while darker lesions could suggest malignancy or chronicity. Color changes can also signify healing or worsening of the lesion.

C) Condition of surrounding skin: Noting the condition of the skin around the lesions helps assess whether there is additional inflammation, infection, or other skin conditions that may be related to the primary lesion. This provides a more comprehensive understanding of the patient’s skin health and any secondary complications.

D) Elevation: Elevation refers to whether the lesion is raised, flat, or depressed compared to the surrounding skin. This characteristic helps in identifying the type of lesion, such as a papule, plaque, or ulcer. Elevated lesions might suggest certain dermatological conditions, while depressed lesions might indicate scarring or loss of tissue.

E) Distribution pattern: The pattern of how lesions are distributed on the body can provide diagnostic clues. For example, a linear distribution might suggest contact dermatitis, while a symmetrical distribution could indicate a systemic condition. Understanding the distribution pattern helps in identifying the underlying cause and planning appropriate treatment.