When assessing the skin of an elderly client, the nurse notes tenting. The nurse understands what about this assessment?
This would indicate pitting edema
This may indicate dehydration, but might not be reliable in an older adult
This means the client is well hydrated
This indicates peripheral neuropathy
The Correct Answer is B
A) This would indicate pitting edema: Tenting is not indicative of pitting edema, which is characterized by a depression left in the skin after pressure is applied. Tenting specifically refers to the skin's elasticity and is assessed by pinching the skin, observing how quickly it returns to its normal position.
B) This may indicate dehydration, but might not be reliable in an older adult: Tenting is often a sign of dehydration, as it reflects decreased skin elasticity. However, in elderly individuals, skin changes due to aging (like reduced elasticity and moisture) may make this assessment less reliable. Factors such as medications, health status, and overall skin integrity can also influence this observation, making it necessary to consider other indicators of hydration.
C) This means the client is well hydrated: Tenting does not indicate adequate hydration. In fact, it typically suggests the opposite, as well-hydrated skin should return to normal quickly after being pinched.
D) This indicates peripheral neuropathy: While peripheral neuropathy can affect skin and tissue integrity, tenting specifically relates to skin turgor and elasticity rather than nerve function. Tenting is not a direct indicator of neuropathy; other assessments would be needed to evaluate nerve health.
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) No discomfort: When palpating the sinuses, the expected finding is that there should be no discomfort. Healthy sinuses typically do not cause pain or tenderness during palpation, indicating that they are clear and not inflamed or infected.
B) Lumps less than 1 centimeter: While lumps may be found in various areas of the body, the presence of lumps in the sinus area during palpation is not a typical finding and may indicate an abnormality or concern that would require further evaluation.
C) Painful sensation behind the eyes: A painful sensation behind the eyes can indicate sinusitis or other sinus issues. It is not an expected finding during a normal examination of the sinuses, as healthy sinuses should not cause discomfort.
D) Heavy pressure: Heavy pressure is often a symptom associated with sinusitis or sinus congestion, but it is not an expected finding during a routine palpation of the sinuses. Healthy sinuses should not feel heavy or pressured during examination.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) Interrupt with frequent questions: While older adults may have questions, they typically do not interrupt frequently. This behavior is more indicative of anxiety or agitation rather than a cognitive change associated with aging.
B) Answer slowly and be confused: While some older adults may exhibit slower responses, confusion is not a normal cognitive change associated with aging. Confusion may suggest underlying issues such as delirium or dementia, rather than typical age-related cognitive changes.
C) Withdraw from strangers: Social withdrawal can occur in some older adults, but it is not a universal expectation. Many older adults remain engaged and sociable, and withdrawal is more commonly associated with mental health issues rather than cognitive changes.
D) Take longer to respond and react: It is common for older adults to take longer to process information and respond due to normal cognitive slowing. This may reflect changes in processing speed rather than a decline in cognitive function, and it is an expected part of aging.