CNA Certification (Written Exam)Communication and Psychosocial NeedsEasy
A nurse aide caring for a dying resident notices the resident's hands and feet have become bluish-purple and blotchy (mottled). What should the aide do?
- AAssume the resident is in severe pain and call the family immediately
- BVigorously massage the hands and feet to restore blood flow
- CReport this to the nurse as an expected sign of decreased circulation near death
- DApply ice packs to reduce the discoloration
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Report this to the nurse as an expected sign of decreased circulation near death
Mottling of the skin is a normal, expected sign that circulation is slowing as the body approaches death. The aide should report it to the nurse as part of ongoing observation, but it does not require aggressive intervention.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Mottling alone does not indicate pain; other signs should be assessed.
- B. Massaging will not reverse this natural circulatory change and may cause discomfort.
- D. Ice packs are not appropriate and will not help.
Skin Mottling at End of Life
Bluish-purple, blotchy skin discoloration of the extremities that occurs as circulation decreases near death.
- Common in the hours before death
- Caused by decreased peripheral circulation
- Should be reported to the nurse, not treated aggressively
Memory trick: Mottled skin means the body is slowing down, not speeding up an emergency.