As a girl progresses through development,she may be at risk for a number of age-related conditions.While preparing a 21-year-old patient for her first adult physical examination and Papanicolaou (Pap)test,the nurse is aware of excessive shyness.The young woman states that she will not remove her bra because "there is something wrong with my breasts; one is way bigger." What is the best response by the nurse in this situation?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

During adolescence one breast may grow faster than the other; breasts are rarely the same size.Discussion regarding this aspect of growth and development with the patient will reassure her that there may be nothing wrong with her breasts.Female teenagers usually enter the health system for screening (Pap tests begin at age 18 or younger if sexually active).Situations such as these can produce great stress for the teenager,and the nurse and health care provider should treat her carefully.Asking her to reschedule will likely result in the patient's not returning for her appointment at all.A breast examination at her age is part of the complete physical examination.Young women should be taught about normal breast development and begin doing breast self-examinations.The last response is inappropriate.Although it shows empathy on the part of the nurse and acknowledges the patient's stress,it will not correct the patient's deficient knowledge related to normal growth and development.

As a Girl Progresses Through Development,she May Be at Risk