FAU Advanced Health Assessment Practice Test

When assessing a young woman, what observation is key for determining Tanner stage IV?

1. Presence of no breast development

2. Areola and nipple form a secondary mound

3. Complete breast formation with maturity

4. Tanner stage III indicators are present

The correct answer is: Areola and nipple form a secondary mound

The observation that indicates Tanner stage IV in females is the presence of the areola and nipple forming a secondary mound. Tanner staging is a scale used to assess the development of secondary sexual characteristics during puberty. At Tanner stage IV, breast development progresses beyond that of stage III, where the nipple and areola become more elevated, creating the secondary mound effect. This stage signifies a significant development in breast development, where the contours of the breast are becoming more pronounced and distinct, but full maturity is not yet reached. Stage IV is characterized by the areola being raised and distinct from the rest of the breast tissue, highlighted by the formation of this secondary mound, which differentiates it from stages I, II, and III. Therefore, observing this particular anatomical change is key for determining Tanner stage IV in young women.