A nurse is inspecting the skin of a client who has basal cell carcinoma. The nurse should identify which of the following lesion characteristics on the client's skin?
Explanation & Rationale
Rationale: A. A pearly, waxy nodule: This is the classic presentation of basal cell carcinoma. These lesions often appear as small, shiny, flesh-colored or pink nodules with a translucent or pearly surface and may have visible blood vessels. They are slow-growing and rarely metastasize. B. An irregular border on a variegated-colored lesion: This description is more indicative of malignant melanoma, which often appears as an asymmetric lesion with uneven borders and multiple colors, including black, brown, red, or white. C. A firm, nodular, crusty, or ulcerated lesion: These characteristics are more commonly associated with squamous cell carcinoma, which tends to be more aggressive and can metastasize if untreated. D. A weeping vesicle: This finding is consistent with inflammatory skin conditions such as contact dermatitis or eczema, not basal cell carcinoma. These vesicles are usually associated with allergic or irritant reactions.