Normal Anatomy and Physiology of the Female Pelvis Related

Review Normal Anatomy and Physiology of the Female Pelvis related questions and content

While performing a self-breast exam, the patient notes an area on the right breast that is nodular, with some associated tenderness. This is a new onset finding because the exams were

  • A. The patient calls to report her findings to the clinical nurse because this is not her typical result. What action should the nurse perform next?
  • B. Refer the patient to an oncologist because the results are suspicious.
  • C. Ask the patient to come in for an office visit so that the findings can be validated but tell her that this information is within the normal range of presentation.
  • D. Have the patient wear a tight-fitting bra and tell her that the tenderness is associated with ovulation and will pass.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because a new nodular area with tenderness in the breast is concerning for a potential breast abnormality or pathology. The nurse should advise the patient to report these findings promptly to a healthcare provider for further evaluation, which may include a clinical breast exam, imaging studies, and possibly a biopsy if warranted.

Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because B jumps to a conclusion without proper assessment or evaluation, C downplays the significance of the findings without proper validation, and D provides inaccurate information about the association of tenderness with ovulation, which is not relevant in this context.