Questions and Answers on Respiratory System Related

Review Questions and Answers on Respiratory System related questions and content

A black client with asthma seeks emergency care for acute respiratory distress. Because of this client's dark skin, the nurse should assess for cyanosis by inspecting the:

  • A. Lips
  • B. Mucous membranes
  • C. Nail beds
  • D. Earlobes
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Mucous membranes. Cyanosis, a bluish discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes, is an important sign of respiratory distress. In individuals with dark skin, cyanosis may be more easily detected in the mucous membranes, such as the lips and oral mucosa, compared to the skin. The lips (choice A), nail beds (choice C), and earlobes (choice D) may not always show cyanosis clearly in individuals with darker skin tones. Therefore, assessing the mucous membranes is the best option for identifying cyanosis accurately in this scenario.