Question

Upon assessment of the skin of a patient recovering from cardiac surgery, the nurse notes that ecchymosis is present around the incision. What are the physical findings of this condition?

A) A purplish discoloration due to a collection of blood in the subcutaneous tissues
B) A raised, reddened area with itching
C) A clear, watery discharge from the incision
D) A bluish hue caused by bacterial infection

Answer 1

Upon assessment of the skin of a patient recovering from cardiac surgery, the nurse notes that ecchymosis is present around the incision. The physical findings of this condition are A) A purplish discoloration due to a collection of blood in the subcutaneous tissues.

Step-by-step explanation:

Ecchymosis refers to the discoloration of the skin caused by the leakage of blood into the surrounding tissues. In the context of a patient recovering from cardiac surgery, ecchymosis around the incision site is indicative of bleeding beneath the skin.

The purplish discoloration results from the accumulation of blood in the subcutaneous tissues, creating a visible bruise. This finding may be expected after surgery due to surgical trauma, and healthcare providers need to monitor and assess the extent of ecchymosis as part of the postoperative care. Understanding the nature of ecchymosis helps healthcare professionals differentiate it from other skin conditions and tailor appropriate interventions for the patient's recovery.