Question

The nurse observes yellow staining in the sclera of eyes, soles of feet, and palms of hands. This should be interpreted as:

1) normal
2) erythema
3) jaundice
4) ecchymosis

Answer 1

The yellow staining observed by the nurse in the sclera, palms of hands, and soles of feet is indicative of jaundice, which is due to the accumulation of bilirubin in the blood and tissues (option 3).

Step-by-step explanation:

The yellow staining in the sclera of the eyes, soles of feet, and palms of hands observed by the nurse is indicative of a condition called jaundice. Jaundice occurs when there is accumulation of bilirubin, a byproduct of hemoglobin degradation, in the blood and peripheral tissues. This usually happens when the liver is not functioning properly and is unable to remove bilirubin effectively from circulation, leading to its build-up and the subsequent yellow discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes.

The correct interpretation of the observed symptoms is number 3) jaundice. It's important to identify this condition because it might indicate underlying health issues, including liver disease, pancreatitis, or hemolytic disorders, which require medical attention.

Hence, the answer is option 3.