Question

A 29 year old female comes to the clinic for her annual gynecological exam. She has no complaints. The only medication that she takes is a birth control pill. Upon examination, the nurse practitioner notices large ectropions on the cervix. How should the nurse practitioner proceed?

a. This is a normal and expected finding
b. This is typically benign, sample transformation zone for testing.
c. This is indicative of metaplasia
d. Patient needs emergent referral to oncology

Answer 1

The presence of large ectropions on the cervix is generally considered a benign finding and is commonly associated with the use of birth control pills. Therefore, the appropriate course of action for the nurse practitioner would be: b. This is typically benign, sample transformation zone for testing.

Step-by-step explanation:

The presence of large ectropions on the cervix is generally considered a benign finding and is commonly associated with the use of birth control pills. Therefore, the appropriate course of action for the nurse practitioner would be: b. This is typically benign, sample transformation zone for testing. Ectropion refers to the extension of the endocervical columnar epithelium onto the ectocervix. It can appear as red, granular areas on the cervix. While it is often benign and related to hormonal changes, the nurse practitioner may choose to sample the transformation zone for testing (such as a Pap smear) to ensure there are no abnormal cervical cell changes. It's important for the healthcare provider to evaluate any cervical findings in the context of the patient's medical history and risk factors. Routine gynecological exams, including Pap smears, help in early detection and prevention of cervical abnormalities.