The nurse is palpating a female patient's breasts during an examination. Which of these positions is most likely to make significant lumps more distinct during breast palpation?

a. Supine with the arms raised over her head
b. Sitting with the arms relaxed at her sides
c. Supine with the arms relaxed at her sides
d. Sitting with the arms flexed and fingertips touching her shoulders


ANS: A
The nurse should help the woman to a supine position, tuck a small pad under the side to be palpated, and help the woman raise her arm over her head. These maneuvers will flatten the breast tissue and medially displace it. Any significant lumps will then feel more distinct.

Nursing

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The nurse is completing an assessment of a patient with cardiac and respiratory problems. Which data would the nurse categorize as subjective?

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