Advanced Health Assessment Practice Exam

A papule is described as which of the following?

1. Elevated and soft

2. Solid, elevated, and less than 1 cm

3. Flat and circumcised

4. Wider than 1 cm

The correct answer is: Solid, elevated, and less than 1 cm

A papule is defined as a small, solid, elevated lesion that is typically less than 1 cm in diameter. This classification highlights its characteristics: it is raised above the surface of the skin and has distinct edges, which distinguishes it from other skin lesions like macules (flat lesions) and plaques (larger and sometimes flat lesions). The specification of less than 1 cm is crucial in differentiating papules from other similar lesions, such as nodules or tumors, which may exceed this size. Papules can be found in various conditions, from acne to skin allergies, making proper identification essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment. While elevated and soft could describe some types of skin lesions, it does not encapsulate the defining characteristics of a papule. Similarly, flat and circumcised refers more to macules or patches rather than the raised nature of papules, and wider than 1 cm would refer to lesions that are categorized differently, such as plaques or nodules, thereby confirming that the best description given is the one identifying a papule's solid, elevated nature with the size specification.