HESI (Health and Environmental Sciences Institute) Health Assessment Practice Test

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Prepare for the HESI Health Assessment Test with flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Understand each topic with hints and explanations. Ace your exam with confidence!

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

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What is the best technique to assess a patient's skin temperature?

  1. Fingertips because they're more sensitive to small changes in temperature.

  2. Dorsal surface of the hand because the skin is thinner than on the palms.

  3. Ulnar portion of the hand because there is increased blood supply for temperature sensitivity.

  4. Palmar surface of the hand because it is most sensitive to temperature variations.

The correct answer is: Dorsal surface of the hand because the skin is thinner than on the palms.

The best technique to assess a patient's skin temperature is by using the dorsal surface of the hand. This area is optimal for temperature assessment because the skin on the back of the hand is thinner than that on the palms, allowing for better conduction of temperature from the skin surface. The sensitivity of the dorsal surface helps in detecting subtle variations in temperature, making it a practical choice for this assessment. While the fingertips are sensitive and can detect temperature changes, they may not provide a consistent standard for temperature assessment compared to the dorsal surface. The ulnar portion of the hand might suggest increased blood supply, yet it does not contrast with the overall suitability of the dorsal hand for temperature readings, as it does not significantly enhance sensitivity for this specific purpose. The palmar surface, although sensitive to touch, is not ideal for temperature assessment due to its thicker skin and potential for insulation, making it less effective in accurately gauging subtle temperature changes in the surrounding environment.