An older adult comes to the clinic complaining of pain in the ...

[altibaby]

An older adult comes to the clinic complaining of pain in the left foot. While assessing the patient, the nurse notes smooth, shiny skin that contains no hair on the client's lower legs. Which condition does this finding suggest?
 
  a. Venous insufficiency
  b. Hyperthyroidism
  c. Arterial insufficiency
  d. Dehydration

Question 2

While the nurse assesses a newborn of African American descent, the mother points out a blue-black Mongolian spot on the newborn's back and asks, What's that? Is something wrong with my baby? Which response by the nurse is best?
 
  a. I'll ask the physician to look at the spot.
  b. Those spots are quite common and typically fade with time.
  c. You may want a plastic surgeon to look at that.
  d. That spot is benign so it's nothing you need to worry about.

[AISCAMPING]

Answer to Question 1

C
Peripheral arterial insufficiency is associated with smooth, thin, shiny skin with little or no hair. Venous insufficiency leads to thick, rough skin that is commonly hyperpigmented. Hyperthyroidism is associated with abnormally warm skin. Decreased turgor would be seen in dehydration.

Answer to Question 2

B
The best response by the nurse is to explain that Mongolian spots are common in dark-skinned newborns and typically fade over time. The nurse should report the finding in the patient health record, but there is no need to notify the physician immediately. It is inappropriate for the nurse to recommend that the mother take her newborn to a plastic surgeon; Mongolian spots do not require treatment. Although it contains correct information, . . . nothing you need to worry about is condescending.