While working in the Emergency department a Rapid response nurse is evaluating a patient in acute respiratory failure after a motor vehicle crash. Which of the following areas should the nurse evaluate as the most reliable indicator of central cyanosis?

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.

A. Improved wound healing:

While silver sulfadiazine is used to promote wound healing by preventing and treating infections in burn victims, this is not an adverse reaction. This is an intended therapeutic effect of the medication.

B. Allergic reaction in patients with sulfa allergies:

Silver sulfadiazine contains sulfa, and patients who have a sulfa allergy may experience an allergic reaction. This can range from mild skin rashes to severe systemic reactions and is considered a significant adverse reaction.

C. Delayed wound healing:

Silver sulfadiazine is generally used to promote wound healing by preventing bacterial infections. Delayed wound healing is not a common adverse reaction but may occur in some cases due to other underlying factors or if the medication is not effective against certain bacteria.

D. Increased risk of infection:

The primary purpose of silver sulfadiazine is to reduce the risk of infection in burn wounds. An increased risk of infection would indicate a failure of the medication, not an adverse reaction. The correct potential adverse reaction is an allergic response in patients with a known sulfa allergy.