A nurse palpates a small lump in a woman's breast. The most appropriate action by the nurse is to
A) ask the client if any relatives have had breast cancer.
B) document its characteristics and the position of the client.
C) refer the client for a same-day mammography.
D) tell the client to return next month for a repeat examination.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The nurse should note the lump's characteristics and the position of the client when palpated. The areola can be used as a reference point. History should precede physical examination. The client may or may not need mammography, depending on many factors, including if the lump has been noted and examined previously and is unchanged. Returning next month for follow-up, again, may or may not be appropriate.

A Nurse Palpates a Small Lump in a Woman's Breast