Final answer:
Characteristic findings of Hodgkin's disease include enlarged, painless lymph nodes. Swollen lymph nodes are a common sign for infections as well, but their persistence and painlessness can indicate Hodgkin's disease, necessitating further medical evaluation.
Step-by-step explanation:
The assessment findings specifically characteristic of Hodgkin's disease include enlarged, painless lymph nodes. This symptom is often seen in patients with Hodgkin's disease and other forms of lymphoma. In Hodgkin's disease, the lymph nodes can become enlarged due to the presence of cancerous lymphocytes within them. While swollen lymph nodes can also be a sign of infection, the persistence of swollen nodes, especially if painless, is a concerning sign that may prompt further investigation for Hodgkin's disease. Other symptoms associated with Hodgkin's disease can include fatigue, weight loss, night sweats, and fever, but these can also be common in other conditions.