AIIMS Delhi NO-2016
Fundamental of Nursing
Easy

In BSE, the position used is:

Appeared in: AIIMS Delhi NO-2016

Explanation

  • Placing one hand under or behind the head is a crucial step during the palpation phase of a Breast Self-Examination (BSE).
  • This position is used when lying down (supine) to examine the breast.
  • The purpose of this arm position is to flatten the breast tissue, spreading it evenly over the chest wall.
  • Flattening the tissue makes it thinner and allows for a more thorough and effective palpation to detect any lumps or abnormalities.

Why Other Options Were Wrong

  • Option B: Placing a hand close to the midline of the body does not facilitate the spreading of breast tissue, which is essential for a thorough examination.
  • Option C: A sitting position with the arm on the lap is a resting posture and is not used for either the inspection or palpation phases of BSE. For inspection, arms are typically raised or placed on the hips.
  • Option D: Although the supine (lying down) position is correct for palpation, placing the arm on the chest would cover the breast area, making a proper examination impossible.

Related Visual

Visual explanation — Related Visual
Clinical Relevance
  • Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Procedure and correct positioning for Breast Self-Examination (BSE) as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
  • Teaching patients the correct BSE technique is a vital nursing responsibility for promoting early detection of breast cancer.
  • Nurses should emphasize that BSE is a tool for breast awareness and should be done monthly, ideally a week after menstruation when breasts are less tender.
  • It's crucial to inform patients that any new lump, change in skin texture (dimpling, puckering), nipple discharge, or change in breast size or shape should be reported to a healthcare provider immediately.
How to Approach the Question
  • First, identify the core topic of the question, which is the correct position for Breast Self-Examination (BSE).
  • Recall the standard procedure for BSE, which includes two main parts: visual inspection and manual palpation.
  • Think about the positions required for each part. Inspection is done standing, while palpation is done both standing (often in the shower) and lying down (supine).
  • Evaluate each option against the correct procedure. Option A, 'One hand under the head,' describes the correct arm position for the palpation phase when lying down.
  • Analyze the other options. Option B is an incorrect arm position. Option C is an incorrect body position. Option D has the correct body position (supine) but an incorrect arm position (on the chest) that would obstruct the exam.
  • Conclude that placing one hand under the head is the most accurate and essential positioning element described among the choices for an effective BSE.
Concept Tested & Keywords
  • Concept Tested: Procedure and correct positioning for Breast Self-Examination (BSE).
  • Stem keywords: BSE, position
  • Lead-in keywords: BEST, MOST RELEVANT CLUE
  • Negative lead-in flag: false

Question ID

QgnbdQ6ciyWf3TNtBbje53

Reference Book

E6 Pathology-Vandana Puri & Kavita Gaur Textbook of Pathology and Genetics p. 607-609

E6 Nursing Fundamentals Potter Perry 12e Part 3 p. 104-106

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