Question

The nurse is caring for a client with scleroderma. which findings will the nurse expect during the physical assessment?

A) Thickening and hardening of the skin
B) Raynaud's phenomenon (color changes in fingers)
C) Joint pain and stiffness
D) Hair loss and nail abnormalities
E) Increased flexibility and range of motion

Answer 1

In a client with scleroderma, a nurse should expect to observe thickening and hardening of the skin, Raynaud's phenomenon, joint pain and stiffness, and hair loss and nail abnormalities during the physical assessment.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse caring for a client with scleroderma would expect to find certain clinical manifestations during the physical assessment. These findings typically include:

Thickening and hardening of the skin

Raynaud's phenomenon (color changes in fingers)

Joint pain and stiffness

Hair loss and nail abnormalities

E) Increased flexibility and range of motion would not be expected, as scleroderma typically results in decreased mobility due to skin and joint involvement.

Scleroderma, a chronic connective tissue disease, often presents with skin that is hard and tight, and may result in complications such as Raynaud's phenomenon and joint issues. Additionally, the disease can lead to hair loss and changes in nail structure.