Practice Question
Which finding(s) can the practical nurse (PN) determine by palpating a client's skin? Select all that apply
Answer Choices:
Correct Answer:
Warmth.
Rationale:
Warmth
🟡Palpation is the correct technique to assess skin temperature, making warmth a directly palpable finding.
🟡Use the dorsum (back) of the hand—it’s more sensitive to temperature changes—and compare bilaterally to detect asymmetry.
🟡Localized warmth suggests inflammation or infection (e.g., cellulitis, phlebitis) along a specific area or vascular pathway.
🟡Generalized warmth may reflect fever, hypermetabolic states (e.g., hyperthyroidism), or environmental heat exposure.
🟡Document site, degree (e.g., mild/moderate/marked), and pattern (localized vs. generalized) to guide diagnostics and interventions.
Perspiration
🟡Moisture is assessed by palpation, so perspiration/diaphoresis is a palpable skin finding indicating autonomic activity.
🟡Diaphoresis can signal fever, pain/anxiety, hypoglycemia, myocardial ischemia, or drug effects, warranting prompt correlation with vital signs.
🟡Check typical moisture sites—hairline, axillae, palms, trunk—and note distribution (focal vs. diffuse) and severity.
🟡Persistent moisture increases risk for skin maceration and breakdown; implement skin protection and cooling/comfort measures as indicated.
🟡Record onset, triggers, and associated symptoms (e.g., dizziness, chest pain) to support clinical decision-making and trend monitoring.
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This question is from Hesi Exit CAT Exam-PN 2025 which contains 107 questions.
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Question Details
- Category: LPN Nursing Exam(s)
- Subcategory: LPN HESI Exit Exam(s)
- Domain: LPN HESI Exit-2025
- Answer Choices: 5