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

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Prepare for the HESI Health Assessment Test. Study with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each offering hints and explanations. Tackle your exam with confidence!

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What physical characteristic indicates clubbing of the fingernails?

  1. A nail base that is firm and slightly tender

  2. A nail base feeling spongy with an angle of 150 degrees

  3. An angle of the nail base of 180 degrees or greater

  4. Curved nails with a convex profile

The correct answer is: An angle of the nail base of 180 degrees or greater

Clubbing of the fingernails is characterized by an angle of the nail base of 180 degrees or greater. This condition typically arises as a response to chronic hypoxia or other underlying health issues, leading to changes in the shape and appearance of the nails. When clubbing occurs, the normal angle between the nail and the nail bed, which is typically around 160 degrees, increases significantly. A reading of 180 degrees or greater indicates this dramatic change, which might manifest as enlargement of the fingertips and changes in the contour of the nails. The physical changes associated with clubbing can be indicative of various medical conditions, such as respiratory diseases (like cystic fibrosis or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), certain heart diseases, and other systemic conditions. Understanding this characteristic helps healthcare providers assess and identify potential underlying health issues through a simple physical examination of the nails.

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