The nurse is caring for a client who is dark-skinned and has been admitted to the hospital in severe respiratory distress. Which of the following actions should the nurse implement to determine whether the client is cyanotic?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Cyanosis in dark-skinned individuals is more easily seen in the mucous membranes. Earlobe colour may change in light-skinned individuals, but this change in skin colour is difficult to detect on darker skin. Application of pressure to the palms of the hands and nail bed assessment would check for adequate circulation, but not for skin colour.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Client Who Is Dark-Skinned