A 16-year-old female reports breast tenderness and a "lump." The primary care pediatric nurse practitioner palpates a small fluid-filled mass in her right breast. A pregnancy test is negative. Which action is correct?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Given the patient's age and negative pregnancy test, it is important to rule out any potential malignancy with an ultrasound of the mass. While a CBC may be indicated if an infection is suspected, there is no current evidence to suggest that is the case. NSAIDs can help with discomfort, but do not address the underlying cause of the mass. Reassuring the patient without further evaluation would be inappropriate as a small percentage of breast masses in adolescents may be malignant.

A 16-Year-Old Female Reports Breast Tenderness and a "Lump