When inspecting the client’s skin, the nurse observes several areas of ecchymosis on the trunk and extremities. Which information in the client’s history requires additional follow-up by the nurse?
Works in a day care center.
Adheres to a gluten-free diet.
Takes an oral anticoagulant.
Recently had dental surgery.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
Working in a day care center may expose the client to minor injuries or infections, but it is not directly associated with widespread ecchymosis. Ecchymosis is more likely related to systemic issues rather than occupational hazards.
Choice B rationale
Adhering to a gluten-free diet is typically related to managing celiac disease or gluten intolerance, which primarily affects the gastrointestinal tract. Ecchymosis is not a typical manifestation of gluten intolerance.
Choice C rationale
Taking an oral anticoagulant medication increases the risk of bleeding, which can manifest as ecchymosis (bruising) on the skin. Anticoagulants such as warfarin or aspirin can interfere with the blood’s ability to clot, leading to bleeding into the skin and subsequent ecchymosis.
Choice D rationale
Dental surgery may involve procedures that could cause minor trauma to the oral tissues, leading to localized bruising around the mouth or jaw area. However, this localized bruising would typically not explain the presence of ecchymosis observed on the trunk and extremities.
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Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Asking if the client has been sleeping well is important for assessing overall health and identifying potential sleep disorders, but it may not directly address the immediate concerns related to the client’s expressionless facial affect, slurred speech, and red conjunctivae.
Choice B rationale
Asking if the client has ever had problems with blood sugar is crucial, as these symptoms could be indicative of hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia. Blood sugar imbalances can cause neurological symptoms such as slurred speech and changes in facial expression.
Choice C rationale
Asking if the client has had anything to eat in the last 24 hours is relevant for assessing nutritional status and potential hypoglycemia, but it may not provide immediate insight into the underlying cause of the symptoms.
Choice D rationale
Asking if the client has been depressed lately is important for assessing mental health, but it may not directly address the immediate physical symptoms the client is experiencing.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
While jugular vein distention can indicate fluid overload or heart failure, it is not a direct assessment of orthopnea, which is the difficulty breathing while lying flat.
Choice B rationale
Auscultating breath sounds while the client is supine can provide information about lung function and the presence of abnormal breath sounds, but it does not specifically address orthopnea.
Choice C rationale
Measuring the blood pressure when the client is lying and standing assesses for orthostatic hypotension, which is a drop in blood pressure upon standing. While orthostatic hypotension can contribute to symptoms of dizziness or fainting upon assuming an upright position, it does not directly assess orthopnea.
Choice D rationale
Orthopnea is a condition where individuals have difficulty breathing while lying flat and may need to sleep with multiple pillows or in a more upright position to alleviate symptoms.Therefore, asking the client about the number of pillows used for sleep can provide valuable information about the presence and severity of orthopnea.