Question

While assessing an older adult patient, the nurse notes clubbing of the fingers. This finding is a sign of?

1) Fungal infection
2) Poor circulation
3) Iron deficiency
4) Long-term hypoxia

Answer 1

Clubbing of the fingers is indicative of long-term hypoxia ( option 4) and chronic low oxygen levels in the blood, commonly associated with chronic lung conditions or congenital heart defects.

Step-by-step explanation:

Clubbing of the fingers is a sign of long-term hypoxia. It is a condition that is caused by chronic low oxygen levels in the blood. Healthcare providers use nails as an indicator of oxygen saturation. Nail clubbing is not typically associated with fungal infections, poor circulation in the sense of blood loss or shock, or iron deficiency specifically. Instead, nail clubbing is usually linked to more chronic conditions that affect oxygenation, such as lung diseases, congenital heart defects, and some gastrointestinal diseases.