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Questions and Answers
The primary purposes of a physical examination related to the breast include promoting health and detecting health problems at an early stage.
True
Patients should be examined in a lying down position for breast assessments.
False
During breast palpation, a normal finding would include tenderness, masses, or nipple discharge.
False
Cooper’s ligament is a type of fibrous tissue that provides support to the breast.
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The areola and nipples should be palpated for tenderness and the presence of discharge during a breast examination.
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Documentation is not necessary after completing a breast health assessment.
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Breast self-examination is an important technique that should be taught to clients.
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Inspection is not a critical part of examining the breasts.
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Gynecomastia refers to the enlargement of male breasts.
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To minimize patient discomfort during palpation, it is recommended to use cold hands.
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The central axillary nodes can be palpated by pressing downward toward the chest wall.
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The lateral nodes are palpated by pressing fingers along the outer side of the upper arm.
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Palpating the anterior nodes requires grasping the anterior axillary fold with your thumb and fingers.
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The subscapular or posterior nodes can be palpated while standing in front of the patient.
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Documenting breast lumps can involve patterns such as circular and vertical strip.
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The references provided consist only of online sources.
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Study Notes
Learning Objectives
- Identify purposes of breast physical examination: promote health, early detection of problems, and assess breast-related issues.
- Demonstrate accurate documentation and reporting of health assessments.
Overview of Breast Anatomy
- Normal breast structure includes lobes, ducts, and support tissues such as Cooper’s ligaments.
- Understanding breast anatomy is crucial for effective assessment and examination.
Breast Assessment Techniques
- Inspection: Look for skin dimpling and abnormalities in the breast.
- Patient should adopt a sitting position for optimal inspection.
- Palpation: Examine areola and nipples for masses or discharge, noting amount, color, consistency, and odor.
- Typically, there should be no tenderness, masses, nodules, or abnormal discharge.
- Instruct patients on breast self-examination techniques.
Documenting Breast Findings
- Use specific methods for documenting breast lumps such as circular, wedged, or vertical strip patterns.
Male Breast Considerations
- Male breasts can experience conditions like gynecomastia, which is characterized by enlarged breast tissue.
Axillary Assessment
- Palpation of axillary nodes is critical, ensuring patient comfort by warming hands before examination.
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Palpation Techniques:
- Central nodes: Apply pressure downward toward the chest wall.
- Pectoral/anterior nodes: Grasp anterior axillary fold with thumb and fingers while palpating the borders of the pectoral muscles.
- Lateral nodes: Press fingers along the inner upper arm to compress nodes against the humerus.
- Subscapular/posterior nodes: Stand behind the patient, pressing fingers into the muscles of the posterior axillary fold for palpation.
Reference Materials
- Recommended textbooks cover health assessment in nursing and physical examination processes, essential for understanding anatomical and assessment concepts.
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Description
This quiz evaluates your understanding of the physical examination related to breast health. You'll learn to identify its purposes, assess problems, and demonstrate proper documentation techniques. Test your knowledge and enhance your skills in nursing practices.
