ATI Capstone Exam Related

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The emergency service team brings a homeless client found lying in an alley to the emergency department. An assessment is performed, and the client is suspected of having frostbite of the hands. Which finding would the nurse expect to note in this condition?

  • A. Red skin with edema in the nail beds.
  • B. Black fingertips surrounded by an erythematous rash.
  • C. A white appearance to the skin that is insensitive to touch.
  • D. A pink edematous hand.
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: A white appearance to the skin that is insensitive to touch. Frostbite initially presents with a white or pale appearance due to vasoconstriction, followed by numbness or insensitivity to touch. This occurs as a result of decreased blood flow to the affected area. As frostbite progresses, the skin may turn blue or purplish due to tissue damage. Red skin with edema in the nail beds (Choice A) is more indicative of inflammation or infection rather than frostbite. Black fingertips surrounded by an erythematous rash (Choice B) may suggest gangrene, a severe complication of untreated frostbite. A pink edematous hand (Choice D) is not characteristic of frostbite, as it typically presents with a white or bluish discoloration.