Question

Cyanosis signifies that a patient has ________.

1) oxygen-starved skin
2) been kept out of the sun
3) an allergic reaction
4) been exposed to cyanide
5) had too much sun

Answer 1

Cyanosis signifies that a patient has oxygen-starved skin. This is seen in individuals with heart conditions like tetralogy of Fallot or patent foramen ovale, where there is an insufficient supply of oxygenated blood resulting in blue or purple skin coloration.

Step-by-step explanation:

Cyanosis signifies that a patient has oxygen-starved skin. Regardless of normal skin pigmentation, individuals with certain heart conditions have an insufficient supply of oxygenated blood, resulting in a blue or purple coloration of the skin, especially when active. This condition, known as a 'blue baby,' can be caused by severe septal defects such as tetralogy of Fallot or patent foramen ovale.