Management of CareQuestion 2199 of 2368

During a skin assessment, the nurse notices an unusual pattern of bruising on a client. What should the nurse do?

  1. Document it as ordinary bruising only and take no other action
  2. Wait for the client to mention it before asking any questions
  3. Investigate further and report according to agency policy and state regulations
  4. Ask the family to explain it and take no further action if the answer is clear
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Correct answer: Investigate further and report according to agency policy and state regulations

Unusual patterns of bruising or burns can be signs of abuse and warrant further investigation and reporting.

Source: Nursing Skills, 2nd edition (Open RN, Chippewa Valley Technical College, 2023), Integumentary Assessment: Objective Assessment. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.

Practice the topic "Management of Care"

Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026