The nurse's comprehensive assessment of a patient includes inspection for signs of oral cancer. What assessment finding is most characteristic of oral cancer in its early stages?
Presence of a painless sore with raised edges
Diffuse inflammation of the buccal mucosa
Dull pain radiating to the ears and teeth
Areas of tenderness that make chewing difficult
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason:
A painless sore with raised edges is a characteristic early sign of oral cancer. It may appear as a small, painless lump or sore in the mouth, often with raised edges. This finding should raise suspicion and prompt further evaluation.
Choice B reason:
Diffuse inflammation of the buccal mucosa is a non-specific finding and can be caused by various factors, including infection or irritation. While it's important to assess the oral mucosa for any abnormalities, it is not specific to oral cancer.
Choice C reason:
Dull pain radiating to the ears and teeth is not a characteristic early sign of oral cancer. Pain associated with oral cancer may occur in later stages or if there is local invasion of nerves.
Choice D reason:
Areas of tenderness that make chewing difficult may occur for various reasons, including dental issues or other oral health problems. While this can be distressing for the patient, it is not specific to oral cancer.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:
This presentation of hepatic encephalopathy includes severe manifestations, such as profound confusion, difficulty in arousal, and the presence of rigidity, indicating advanced neurological impairment. This places the patient in Stage 4, which is the most severe stage of hepatic encephalopathy.
Choice B reason:
Stage 3 is characterized by severe symptoms, such as drowsiness, anxiety, seizures, severe personality changes, confused speech, and shaky hands.
Choice C reason:
Stage 1 is characterized by mild symptoms, such as difficulty thinking, personality changes, poor concentration, and problems with handwriting.
Choice D reason
Stage 2 is characterized moderate symptoms, such as confusion, forgetfulness, poor judgment, and a musty or sweet breath odor.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Asterixis is a characteristic sign of hepatic encephalopathy, characterized by a flapping tremor of the hands. It is associated with liver dysfunction and is indicative of impaired ammonia metabolism in the brain.
Choice B reason:
Fetor hepaticus refers to a musty, sweet odor of the breath that is associated with severe liver disease. It is not related to the flapping tremor observed in this case.
Choice C reason:
Palmar erythema is a reddening of the palms and is associated with various conditions, including liver disease. However, it is not the sign described in the scenario.
Choice D reason:
Constructional apraxia is a neurological deficit characterized by difficulty in copying or constructing simple drawings or designs. It is not related to the flapping tremor seen in hepatic encephalopathy.
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