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Chapter 12— Head and Neck, Including Lymph Nodes and Vessels. Introduction. Head, neck regions Scalp; cranium; lymphatic system; parathyroid, thyroid glands Chapter contents Data collection methodology Signs/symptomology Parathyroid, thyroid imbalances
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Introduction • Head, neck regions • Scalp; cranium; lymphatic system; parathyroid, thyroid glands • Chapter contents • Data collection methodology • Signs/symptomology • Parathyroid, thyroid imbalances • Correct techniques for inspection and palpation • Common expected and unexpected findings
Structure and Function • Structures interact with multiple body systems. • Integumentary; neurological; respiratory; vascular; gastrointestinal; lymphatic; endocrine • Head • Skeletal structure; muscles; blood supply; nerve supply; salivary glands • Neck (C1–C7) • Trachea • Thyroid, parathyroid glands • Lymphatics
Lifespan Considerations: Older Adults • Bony structures more pronounced • D/T decreased subcutaneous fat • Skin lesions more likely • Careful assessment for skin cancers, especially in commonly sun-exposed areas • Hypothyroidism/hyperthyroidism more common • Hypothyroidism > Hyperthyroidism • Cultural considerations
Urgent Assessment • Acute head injuries and neurologic changes • Stabilization of head, neck; trauma assessments • Neck pain: usually muscle tension, spasm • Beware: fever + headache; possible cardiac • Lymphatics • > 1 cm; fixed, irregular, hard or rubbery • Require emergency investigation for cancer • Hyperthyroidism: “thyroid storm”, “thyroid crisis” • Hypermetabolism in all systems
Subjective Data Collection • Multiple systems may influence structure, function • Assessment of risk factors • Personal history • Medications • Family history • Risk reduction and health promotion • Reducing injury risk • Preventing thyroid disorder complications • Early detection of masses or malignant lymph nodes
Common Symptoms • Common head, neck symptoms • Headache; neck pain • Limited neck movement • Facial pain • Lumps/masses • Hypo/hyperthyroidism • Lifespan considerations: older adults • Cultural considerations
Objective Data Collection • Equipment; preparation • Common and specialty or advanced techniques • Head-to-toe assessment • Comprehensive physical examination • Inspection: head; hair; neck • Palpation • Head: temporal artery + pulse; scalp • Neck: thyroid; head, neck lymph nodes; cervical spine; neck, in general • Auscultation: enlarged thyroid only
Critical Thinking • Common laboratory and diagnostic testing • CT; MRI; lumbar puncture; thyroid labs: TSH, T3, T4 • Diagnostic reasoning: Nursing diagnosis, outcomes, and interventions • Outcomes (partial list) • Patient verbalizes increased energy, well-being. • Pain goals are met. • Interventions (partial list) • Allow for period of rest before planned activity. • Set small, achievable short-term activity goals
Question • Is the following statement true or false? An expected finding with neck palpation is lymph nodes larger than 1 cm in size.
Answer • False • Rationale: Lymphatics larger than 1 cm, fixed, irregular, or hard or rubbery require emergency investigation. Such signs raise the possibility of cancer.