Question

The nurse assesses the skin of a Caucasian client diagnosed with psoriasis. Which finding does the nurse expect to observe?

1. Reddish-purple scaly lesions.
2. Oily skin but no itching.
3. Clear, thin nail beds.
4. Silvery white scaly patches.

Answer 1

In assessing a Caucasian client with psoriasis, a nurse would expect to observe silvery white scaly patches on the skin. This appearance is due to the rapid turnover of skin cells, which creates thick, inflamed patches characteristic of psoriasis.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a nurse assesses the skin of a Caucasian client diagnosed with psoriasis, the finding they expect to observe is option 4: Silvery white scaly patches. Psoriasis is a skin condition that results in patches of thick, red skin covered with silvery scales and is often itchy or sore. This condition affects various parts of the body, including elbows, knees, scalp, back, face, palms, and feet. The rapid turnover of skin cells due to cytokine activation, which normally takes about a month, happens in just a few days in people with psoriasis. This results in the accumulation of skin cells on the surface, leading to the distinctive thick and inflamed patches.