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A client is seen in the ambulatory care clinic for a superficial burn to the arm. On assessing the skin at the burn injury, what will the nurse observe?

a.White color
b.Pink or red color
c.Weeping blisters
d. insensitivity to pain and cold

User Ljetibo
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Final answer:

When assessing a burn injury, the nurse will observe a pink or red color due to inflammation. (Option b is the correct answer).

Step-by-step explanation:

When assessing the skin at a burn injury, the nurse will observe a pink or red color. This is because burns typically cause inflammation, which increases blood flow to the affected area. In some cases, the skin may also appear white or black, depending on the severity of the burn.

When assessing a superficial burn to the arm, the nurse will observe a pink or red color (Option B). Superficial burns, also known as first-degree burns, affect the outer layer of the skin (epidermis). The skin appears pink or red due to increased blood flow to the injured area. Superficial burns typically do not form blisters or result in insensitivity to pain and cold. Weeping blisters (Option C) are more characteristic of deeper burns.

It's important to note that in superficial burns, pain receptors are still intact, so the individual will likely experience pain. Insensitivity to pain and cold (Option D) is more indicative of more severe burn injuries that involve damage to deeper layers of the skin.

The observation of pink or red color in the affected area suggests a superficial burn, and understanding these visual cues helps the nurse assess the severity of the burn and plan appropriate care for the client.

User Jofre
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