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

In cases where a patient presents with changes in mole size along with other alarming symptoms, it is imperative for the nurse to take immediate and appropriate action. Referring the patient due to suspicion of melanoma is warranted because changes in moles can be indicative of malignant transformation. Melanoma, a type of skin cancer, is characterized by asymmetry, irregular borders, multiple colors, large diameter, and evolving characteristics, which are often evident to the clinician during an assessment.

Prompt referral to a dermatologist or healthcare provider specializing in skin conditions ensures that the patient receives the necessary evaluation and potential biopsy for accurate diagnosis and early intervention, which are critical for improving outcomes in cases of skin cancer. This proactive approach can significantly influence prognosis, as early-stage melanoma has a much better survival rate than more advanced stages.

Monitoring the lesion without further investigation could lead to a delay in diagnosis and treatment. Additionally, collecting more environmental history might provide useful context in a complete assessment but is not urgent in the face of possible melanoma. Suspecting a common compound nevus implies a benign assessment which may overlook serious underlying pathology in a patient experiencing concerning symptoms. Therefore, the most appropriate and responsible action in this scenario is to refer the patient to address the suspicion of melanoma.