The clinic nurse performs an admission assessment on a client diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Which characteristic cutaneous manifestation of SLE would the nurse most likely assess?

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11ecbb05_c9e3_9a9b_b433_f9771452f9e5_MD0009_00 SLE is an autoimmune disorder in which the body's immune system produces autoantibodies that attack the body's tissues and cells. It is characterized by alternating periods of exacerbation (flare) and remission. The skin is one of the target organs commonly affected by the disease. The characteristic cutaneous manifestation of SLE (> 50%) is a flat or raised red rash that forms a butterfly shape across the bridge of the nose and cheeks. It is often related to sunlight exposure (ultraviolet light) and is more pronounced during a disease flare (Option A). Recurrent oral ulcers are also very common. (Options B, C, and D) Although petechiae, pruritus, and urticaria may be associated cutaneous manifestations, they are not characteristic specifically to SLE. Educational objective: The characteristic cutaneous manifestation of SLE is a flat or raised red rash that forms a butterfly shape across the bridge of the nose and cheeks.

The Clinic Nurse Performs an Admission Assessment on a Client