The nurse is planning to assess the integumentary status for an ...

[rmenurse]

The nurse is planning to assess the integumentary status for an African American client. Which client statement supports the nurse's documentation that the client is experiencing pallor?
 
  1. The whites of my eyes don't look as white anymore; they have a little bit of a yellow cast to them.
  2. My nails look a little bit bluish.
  3. My nails are bright red.
  4. My palms and the inside of my mouth look really pale.

Question 2

The nurse is caring for a client who had abdominal surgery several months ago. The client has verbalized concern that the scar from the surgery is purplish in color. Which response by the nurse is the most appropriate?
 
  1. Having a scar is unavoidable.
  2. The color is normal and will fade with time.
  3. You can have plastic surgery to remove the scar later.
  4. You should be glad your surgery was a success.

[allisonblackmore]

Answer to Question 1

Correct Answer: 4

The client with pale palms and mucous membranes may have developed pallor. The client who states that the sclerae appear yellowish may have become jaundiced. Cyanosis is more readily assessed in the nail beds, oral mucous membranes, and conjunctivae in clients with darker skin color. The client with bright red nails may be experiencing a sign of polycythemia.

Answer to Question 2

Correct Answer: 2

New scars may be red or purple in color and will fade to silvery or white with time. The nurse should not suggest plastic surgery, nor use statements that infer disapproval that the client is asking about the scar.

[rmenurse]

Excellent

[Liddy]

Gracias!