Integumentary MCQs for Nursing Exams

Answer: C. Carbon monoxide poisoning

Carbon monoxide poisoning causes a bright cherry red color in the face and upper torso in light-skinned persons. In dark-skinned persons, there will be a cherry red color to nail beds, lips, and oral mucosa. When anemia occurs in light-skinned persons, the skin has generalized pallor. Anemia in dark-skinned persons manifests as a yellow-brown coloration. Jaundice appears as a yellow coloration of the sclerae. Uremia gives a yellow-orange tinge to the skin.

Answer: C. Apply warm moist heat to the affected area. QUESTIONS

A. The arm should be elevated to decrease edema, not placed in the dependent position, which is lower than the heart. B. Moist heat, immobilization, elevation, and systemic antibiotics are the treatments for cellulitis, which is an inflammation of subcutaneous tissue. C. Antistaphylococcal soap (Hibiclen, Lever 2000, Dial) is prescribed for staph infection. D. The affected area should be left open to air, not wrapped by ACE bandage.

Answer: C. Coarse silvery scales

Psoriasis – skin overgrowth with red patches and coarse silvery scales, possibly hereditary and stress-triggered; rare under 6 years; not contagious., p.350.)

Answer: B. Improve self-image

Improvement of self-image is the most common reason for undergoing cosmetic surgery; appearance is an important part of confidence and self-assurance. Acne scars, pigmentation problems, and wrinkling can be treated with cosmetic surgery but the surgery does not prevent the skin changes associated with aging. 526

Answer: C. "It's best to use the corner of a soapy washcloth."

The accumulation of normal cerumen is best removed by washing the ears with soapy water and a soft cloth. Hard and sharp objects can injure the ear canal or tympanic membrane. A medical referral is appropriate only if the cerumen is excessively hard or impacted.