You perform a skin assessment on a new resident in an LTC facility. Which of the following is of most concern?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because an irregular border on a mole can be indicative of melanoma, a type of skin cancer. It is crucial to identify and address any concerning skin lesions promptly to prevent potential complications. A: Numerous striae are common and not typically a cause for immediate concern. B: Thickened and yellow toenails may indicate a fungal infection but are not as concerning as a potential melanoma. C: Silver-colored scaling on elbows and knees may suggest conditions like psoriasis, which are important to address but not as urgent as a suspicious mole.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because placing the dorsum of the hand on the surface of the skin allows the nurse to assess the skin temperature accurately. The dorsum of the hand is a more sensitive area for detecting subtle temperature changes compared to the palm. By using the dorsum of the hand, the nurse can feel the skin temperature without altering it. Inspection and palpation (Choice A) may provide information about skin color and texture but not specifically about skin temperature. Detecting moisture with the palmar surface (Choice B) is more related to assessing skin moisture rather than temperature. Grasping the skin (Choice C) may help assess skin turgor but not temperature.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B) Apply moisturizer to the skin. As people age, their skin tends to become drier due to a decrease in oil production and thinning of the skin layers. Moisturizing the skin helps to replenish lost moisture, maintain skin integrity, and reduce itching. It forms a protective barrier that prevents further water loss, soothes the skin, and promotes skin healing. Option A) Take hot baths daily is incorrect because hot water can further dry out the skin by stripping away natural oils, exacerbating itching. Option C) Take an antipruritic to control the itching is not the best initial approach as it is more of a symptom management strategy rather than addressing the root cause of dry skin. Option D) Wear minimal clothing to expose the skin to the air is also not recommended as it can lead to further moisture loss and skin irritation, especially in elderly individuals with already compromised skin. In an educational context, it is important for nurses to educate elderly clients on proper skincare practices to maintain skin health and comfort. Teaching about the benefits of moisturizing, avoiding hot water, using gentle cleansers, and maintaining a healthy diet and hydration are crucial aspects of promoting skin integrity in the elderly population.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 and reapply every 2 hours. Sunscreen is crucial in preventing skin cancer by protecting the skin from harmful UV rays. The SPF of 15 or higher provides adequate protection. Reapplying every 2 hours ensures continuous protection. A: Wearing a hat with a wide brim is important but not as effective as sunscreen in preventing skin cancer. C: Using a lip balm with sunscreen is beneficial, but protecting larger areas of the skin with sunscreen is more important. D: Staying in the shade and swimming after 2:00 p.m. may reduce sun exposure, but sunscreen is still necessary for comprehensive protection.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Human skin obtained from a cadaver. Allograft refers to tissue or organ transplanted from one individual to another of the same species. In this case, the allograft is human skin obtained from a cadaver, which is a common source for skin grafts in medical procedures. Choice A is incorrect as it describes an autograft, which involves transplanting skin from one part of the client's body to another. Choice B is incorrect as it refers to xenografts, which use tissue from animals. Choice C is incorrect as it describes a synthetic skin substitute made from bioengineered materials, not human skin from a cadaver.