American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) Practice Exam 2025 - Free ANCC Practice Questions and Study Guide

Prioritizing immediate treatment in a 70-year-old female patient with a palpable ovary is crucial because the finding may indicate an underlying pathological condition, such as an ovarian mass or malignancy. In older women, the presence of a palpable ovary warrants immediate evaluation, as it can lead to serious complications if left unaddressed. This finding raises the suspicion for an abnormal growth or neoplastic changes, which may require further diagnostic workup, imaging studies, and potentially urgent intervention based on the findings.

On the other hand, atrophy of vaginal rugae is often a common and generally benign finding related to aging and hormonal changes, and while it may warrant attention for quality of life, it does not typically require immediate treatment. The presence of a cystocele, although it might require management based on symptoms and severity, is not usually as urgent as a palpable ovary indicating potential malignancy. Similarly, the presence of a pessary indicates an existing arrangement for pelvic support, and unless there are complications related to its placement, it is not an emergency. Prioritizing the management of a palpable ovary helps ensure any serious conditions are caught and treated promptly.