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The nurse is assessing a client's nailbeds. Witch appearance indicates further follow-up is needed for problems associated with chronic hypoxia?

User Dja
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Final answer:

Bluish or purple nail beds and delayed color return during a blanch test are signs indicating further follow-up is needed due to potential chronic hypoxia. Fungal infections may also require attention.

Step-by-step explanation:

When assessing a client's nailbeds for chronic hypoxia, it's important to look for specific signs indicating inadequate oxygenation. If nail beds appear bluish or purple, this can be a sign of low oxygen saturation. A blanch test can also be performed where a fingernail is depressed, making the nail bed turn white, and once released, the color should return within a second or two. In cases of chronic hypoxia, the return to the normal pink color can be delayed. Additional signs that warrant further follow-up include thickened and yellowish nails, indicating potential fungal infections, which can be more common in toenails due to the warm, moist environment and less blood flow compared to fingernails.

User Dnswlt
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