Question

While performing a skin inspection for a female adult client, the nurse observes a rash that is well circumscribed, has silvery scales and plaques, and is located on the elbows and knees. These assessment findings are likely to indicate which condition?

Answer 1

The rash with silvery scales and plaques located on the elbows and knees likely indicates psoriasis, a chronic skin condition characterized by itchy or sore patches of thick, red skin. Psoriasis is caused by an immune-mediated process leading to accelerated skin cell growth.

Step-by-step explanation:

The skin findings described by the student—a well-circumscribed rash with silvery scales and plaques on the elbows and knees—are characteristic of psoriasis. Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that manifests as itchy or sore patches of thick, red skin with silvery scales. These patches are commonly found on areas such as elbows, knees, scalp, back, face, palms, and feet.

Psoriasis stems from an immune-mediated process, where the skin cells grow at an accelerated rate and lead to the build-up forming the typical plaques. This condition can also be associated with joint problems, such as psoriatic arthritis. When encountering these symptoms, a healthcare provider will often consider the patient's full medical history and may perform additional diagnostic tests if necessary to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions with similar presentations.