Author Question: A patient reports chronic itching of the ankles and continuously scratches the area. Which ... (Read 66 times)

genevieve1028 · **on:** Jun 25, 2018

A patient reports chronic itching of the ankles and continuously scratches the area. Which assessment finding will the nurse expect?

a. Hypertrophied scars on both ankles
b. Thickening of the skin around the ankles
c. Yellowish-brown skin around both ankles
d. Complete absence of melanin in both ankles

Question 2

Which abnormality on the skin of an older patient is the priority to discuss immediately with the health care provider?

a. Several dry, scaly patches on the face
b. Numerous varicosities noted on both legs
c. Dilation of small blood vessels on the face
d. Petechiae present on the chest and abdomen

bdobbins · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 25, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
Lichenification is likely to occur in areas where the patient scratches the skin frequently. Lichenification results in thickening of the skin with accentuated normal skin markings. Vitiligo is the complete absence of melanin in the skin. Keloids are hypertrophied scars. Yellowish-brown skin indicates jaundice. Vitiligo, keloids, and jaundice do not usually occur as a result of scratching the skin.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: D
Petechiae are caused by pinpoint hemorrhages and are associated with a variety of serious disorders such as meningitis and coagulopathies. The nurse should contact the patient's health care provider about this finding for further diagnostic follow-up. The other skin changes are associated with aging. Although the other changes will also require ongoing monitoring or intervention by the nurse, they do not indicate a need for urgent action.