Question

While assessing a patient, the nurse finds a palpable lymph node in the left supraclavicular region. Which of the following should be the next action?

A. Recognize that it is not common to palpate lymph nodes in this region and they must be carefully evaluated.
B. Recognize that a palpable node in this region is a dangerous indication of metastatic cancer that requires further evaluation.
C. Recognize that this is a common area for lymph nodes to be enlarged with minor infections.
D. Recognize that a palpable lymph node in this region is always indicative of malignancy.

Answer 1

When a palpable lymph node is found in the left supraclavicular region, the next action should be to recognize that it is not common and must be carefully evaluated. It can be an indication of metastatic cancer, but it is also common in minor infections.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a palpable lymph node is found in the left supraclavicular region, the next action should be to recognize that it is not common to palpate lymph nodes in this region and they must be carefully evaluated. While it is true that a palpable node in this region can be a dangerous indication of metastatic cancer that requires further evaluation, it is not always the case. This region is known as Virchow's node, and it is a common area for lymph nodes to be enlarged with minor infections or certain health conditions.