The nurse uses deep palpation of the abdomen to assess the client for presence of an abdominal mass. The client grimaces and grips the hand rails of the bed. Which response by the nurse is best?

A) Pectoralis major tear: A tear of the pectoralis major muscle would likely cause pain and weakness, particularly in activities involving pushing or lifting. While it may affect shoulder movements, it is less likely to specifically impair the ability to reach behind the back and touch the shoulder blade compared to rotator cuff issues.
B) Arthritis: Arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis, can cause decreased range of motion and pain in the shoulder joint. However, the specific movement described—placing one hand behind the back to touch the shoulder blade—is most commonly affected by issues with the rotator cuff rather than arthritis alone.
C) Rotator Cuff Tendinitis: Rotator cuff tendinitis is a common cause of shoulder pain and decreased range of motion, particularly affecting movements that require lifting the arm or reaching behind the back. Tendinitis in the rotator cuff can lead to pain and difficulty performing the movement described due to inflammation and impingement of the tendons.
D) Gout: Gout is a type of arthritis caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints, often affecting the big toe but can affect other joints. While it can cause joint pain and inflammation, it is less likely to specifically impair the shoulder movement described compared to rotator cuff tendinitis.

Rationale:
A) Peripheral Pulses: Peripheral pulses are assessed by palpating the pulse points, such as the radial or dorsalis pedis pulse, to evaluate the strength and regularity of the pulse. This assessment is not related to pressing the skin and observing it for indentation.
B) Skin Temperature: Skin temperature is assessed by palpating the skin with the back of the hand or fingers to detect warmth or coolness. This method does not involve pressing with the thumb and assessing for indentation.
C) Pitting Edema: Pitting edema is assessed by applying pressure to the skin over a bony area, such as the tibia or ankle, and then observing the skin's response after releasing the pressure. The presence of a pit or indentation that remains after the pressure is removed indicates pitting edema, which is a sign of fluid retention.
D) Capillary Refill: Capillary refill is assessed by pressing down on the nail bed or the skin and then observing how quickly the color returns after releasing the pressure. This test measures peripheral circulation and is different from the assessment for pitting edema.