Medical Surgical HESI Related

Review Medical Surgical HESI related questions and content

While performing a skin assessment on an older adult, the nurse notices a number of irregular round brownish-colored lesions on the client's hands, arms, and face. On palpation, they are flat and slightly rough to the touch. Based on this assessment finding, which action should the nurse implement?

  • A. Apply a topical antibiotic ointment.
  • B. Monitor the lesions for changes.
  • C. Advise the client to use sunscreen.
  • D. Refer the client for a skin lesion biopsy.
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Referral for a skin biopsy is necessary to rule out potential malignancy of irregular skin lesions. Applying a topical antibiotic ointment (Choice A) is not indicated for irregular pigmented lesions. Monitoring the lesions for changes (Choice B) may delay appropriate intervention if malignancy is present. Advising the client to use sunscreen (Choice C) is important for sun protection but is not the priority when irregular lesions are present.