Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 73%
Simulated
A nurse is assessing for jaundice on a dark-skinned client. Which site should the nurse examine to identify jaundice on this client?
Correct answer
A
Rationale
The correct answer is A: Sclera. Jaundice is characterized by yellowing of the skin and mucous membranes due to elevated bilirubin levels. On dark-skinned individuals, the sclera (white part of the eye) is the best site to assess for jaundice as it can show a yellowish hue. Examining the dorsal surface of the foot (choice B), pinnae of the ears (choice C), or palmar surface of the hand (choice D) may not provide a clear indication of jaundice as these areas are less likely to show the yellow discoloration. The sclera is the most reliable site for detecting jaundice in dark-skinned individuals due to the contrast between the yellowish hue and the white sclera.