The nurse performs the action shown in this image during the assessment of a client. What is the nurse assessing?
Intercostal spaces
Lymph nodes
Skin Turgor
Carotid Pulse
The Correct Answer is C
A) Intercostal spaces:
Assessing intercostal spaces typically involves palpating or inspecting the area between the ribs to check for abnormalities such as retractions or tenderness, usually conducted with the client sitting or standing.
B) Lymph nodes:
Palpation of lymph nodes, such as in the cervical region, involves using fingertips to gently feel for enlarged or tender nodes. This examination focuses on areas like the neck, underarms, and groin.
C) Skin Turgor:
The image depicts a nurse pinching the skin, likely on the chest or forearm, which is a common method to assess skin turgor. Skin turgor evaluation helps determine hydration status; if the skin remains tented and returns slowly to its original position, it indicates dehydration.
D) Carotid Pulse:
Assessing the carotid pulse involves palpating the carotid artery along the side of the neck to evaluate the strength and rhythm of the pulse. This is typically done using the pads of the fingers, not by pinching the skin.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
(a) Diarrhea: Diarrhea is an abnormal gastrointestinal response characterized by frequent, loose, or watery stools. It can be caused by infections, medications, or underlying gastrointestinal disorders. Pallor, or paleness of the skin, typically does not directly lead to diarrhea unless there are specific underlying conditions affecting both circulation and gastrointestinal function.
(b) Diaphoresis: Diaphoresis refers to excessive sweating, which can occur due to sympathetic nervous system activation, fever, or anxiety. While diaphoresis may be associated with conditions causing increased sympathetic activity, it is not directly related to pallor, which indicates reduced blood flow to the skin.
(c) Fainting: Pallor is often a sign of decreased blood flow to the skin, indicating potential hypoperfusion. If severe, this reduced circulation can lead to fainting (syncope) due to inadequate blood supply to the brain. Therefore, after noting pallor, the nurse should be prepared to manage the client for potential fainting episodes by ensuring safety and providing appropriate interventions.
(d) Vomiting: Vomiting is the forceful expulsion of stomach contents through the mouth and can be caused by various factors such as gastrointestinal irritation, infection, or systemic illnesses. Pallor does not directly cause vomiting, although severe systemic conditions affecting circulation could potentially lead to nausea and vomiting as part of a broader clinical picture.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
(a) Liver Disease:
Pitting edema is commonly seen in liver disease, especially in conditions like cirrhosis. Liver disease can lead to hypoalbuminemia, where low levels of albumin in the blood cause fluid to leak into the interstitial spaces, resulting in edema. Additionally, liver disease often leads to portal hypertension, which can also contribute to the development of edema.
(b) Diabetes mellitus:
While diabetes can cause complications such as diabetic nephropathy, which may lead to fluid retention, pitting edema is not a primary symptom directly associated with diabetes mellitus. Diabetic patients may develop edema due to kidney issues, but it is not as directly associated as with liver disease.
(c) End Stage Renal Disease:
End-stage renal disease (ESRD) can indeed cause significant fluid retention and edema, including pitting edema. The kidneys' inability to excrete excess fluid leads to its accumulation in tissues. However, the question seems to point towards liver disease, which directly leads to conditions causing pitting edema.
(d) Colon Cancer:
Colon cancer is not typically associated with pitting edema. While advanced cancer can lead to various complications, including fluid imbalances, it is not a primary cause of pitting edema. Edema related to cancer is often more localized and associated with tumor sites or treatment areas.
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