A nurse collecting data from a client who is receiving chemotherapy and is showing manifestations of malnutrition. Which of the following indicates a Vitamin C deficiency?

A nurse collecting data from a client who is receiving chemotherapy and is showing manifestations of malnutrition. Which of the following indicates a Vitamin C deficiency?

• A. Dry, red conjunctiva
• B. Swollen, bleeding gums
• C. Inflammation of the tongue
• D. Pale, brittle nails

Answer: (B)

Vitamin C is essential for collagen synthesis. When its levels are low, collagen formation is impaired, causing fragile blood vessels and gingival tissue that bleeds easily. The swollen, bleeding gums described here are a classic sign of vitamin C deficiency (scurvy), making this finding the best match among the options. Dry, red conjunctiva points more to vitamin A deficiency affecting the eyes. Inflammation of the tongue can occur with riboflavin (B2) or other B vitamin deficiencies. Pale, brittle nails are more typical of iron deficiency anemia or zinc deficiency.

Vitamin C is essential for collagen synthesis. When its levels are low, collagen formation is impaired, causing fragile blood vessels and gingival tissue that bleeds easily. The swollen, bleeding gums described here are a classic sign of vitamin C deficiency (scurvy), making this finding the best match among the options.

Dry, red conjunctiva points more to vitamin A deficiency affecting the eyes. Inflammation of the tongue can occur with riboflavin (B2) or other B vitamin deficiencies. Pale, brittle nails are more typical of iron deficiency anemia or zinc deficiency.