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Multiple Choice
When assessing an elderly male who complains of nausea, which integumentary finding may indicate a serious underlying condition?
A
Warm and dry skin
B
Cool, clammy, and pale skin
C
Slightly flushed cheeks
D
Mildly increased sweating after exercise
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of the integumentary system in assessing overall health. The skin can provide clues about underlying conditions, such as circulatory or systemic issues.
Recognize that cool, clammy, and pale skin is often associated with shock or poor perfusion, which may indicate a serious underlying condition like cardiovascular distress or dehydration.
Compare the other options: Warm and dry skin is typically normal unless paired with other symptoms; flushed cheeks may indicate mild vasodilation or fever; and mildly increased sweating after exercise is a normal physiological response.
Focus on the significance of cool, clammy, and pale skin. This finding suggests reduced blood flow to the skin, which can occur during shock or other critical conditions. It is a priority to investigate further.
Conclude that the integumentary finding of cool, clammy, and pale skin warrants immediate attention and further assessment to identify the underlying cause, such as cardiovascular or systemic issues.