The nurse is inspecting the fingernails of a client with a diagnosis of polycythemia.Which of the following findings would be expected with this diagnosis?

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Polycythemia is a condition in which there is an increased number of red blood cells. This causes the nail beds to appear dark red due to increased blood flow. Horizontal white bands (Beau's lines) are typically associated with systemic illness or nutritional deficiencies. Pale nail beds can indicate anemia or poor peripheral circulation. Spoon-shaped nails (koilonychia) can be a sign of iron deficiency anemia.

The Nurse Is Inspecting the Fingernails of a Client with a Diagnosis