Foundations and Adult Health Nursing Test Bank - Physical Assessment Related

Review Foundations and Adult Health Nursing Test Bank - Physical Assessment related questions and content

A patient has discoloration of an area of their mucous membrane caused by extravasation of blood into the subcutaneous tissue. What should the nurse document that the patient has?

  • A. Dyspnea
  • B. Cyanosis
  • C. Diaphoresis
  • D. Ecchymosis
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Ecchymosis is discoloration of an area of the skin or mucous membrane caused by the extravasation of blood into subcutaneous tissues as a result of trauma to the underlying blood vessels or by fragility of the vessel walls (also called a bruise).