After completing an integumentary status assessment, the nurse ...

[Mimi]

After completing an integumentary status assessment, the nurse documents +1 edema right lower leg. What does this documentation indicate?
 
  1. slight pitting, no obvious distortion
  2. deep pitting, no obvious distortion
  3. pitting is obvious, extremities are swollen
  4. pitting remains with obvious distortion

Question 2

A patient waiting to have a skin biopsy asks what occurs during the procedure. What should the nurse respond to this patient?
 
  1. Didn't your doctor tell you?
  2. Maybe you shouldn't have it done.
  3. I'm not sure.
  4. Let me check to see exactly what you are having done and then we can talk more about what you can expect.

[manuelcastillo]

Answer to Question 1

Correct Answer: 1
The designation +1 means that the patient has slight pitting in the right lower leg with no obvious distortion. The designation + 2 means that the patient has slight deep pitting in the right lower leg with no obvious distortion. The designation + 3 means that pitting is obvious, with swollen extremities. The designation + 4 means pitting remains with obvious distortion.

Answer to Question 2

Correct Answer: 4
Regardless of the type of diagnostic test, the nurse is responsible for explaining the procedure and any special preparation needed and for supporting the patient. Answering the patient's inquiry with a question is not therapeutic. The nurse should not discourage the patient from obtaining treatments ordered. The nurse needs to find out what occurs during the biopsy. This statement is not sufficient communication.