l signs and symptoms of melanomas generally involve presentation of suspicious lesions varying in size, color and shape. Nurses should be aware of the signs and symptoms of melanoma in order to educate patients on what they need to look for. Glasgow's seven-point check list is used in determining the major and minor features associated with melanoma. The major features would include a change in lesion size, irregular pigmentation, and irregular border, while minor features involve itching and inflammation (Hodgetts, 2011). More commonly used is the ABCDE lesion assessment system in which nurses are able to detect melanoma more accurately. The letter A represents asymmetry, B is for border irregularity, C is for the color, D is for the diameter, and E is for evolution. Lesions with irregular borders, odd in coloration, and gradually changes over time are likely to be cancerous (Wheeler, 2009).
             While an individual's sun sensitivity does play a vital role in the development of melanoma, the nurse should be aware that ethnicity, race, and socio-economic background are also contributing factors (Wingfield, 2012). Melanoma predominantly occurs in Caucasians but higher morbidity and mortality rates are associated with African Americans and people of darker complexion due to the lack of awareness by patients as well as health care professionals (Godsell, 2009). Moreover, endogenous causative factors that place individuals at an increased risk for melanoma include pale skin, freckles, fair or red hair and blue eyes (Wheeler, 2009). Nurses are also responsible for identifying risk factors such as a family history of melanoma, history of excessive sun exposure, occupational or recreational sun exposure, and a suppressed immune system (Torrens & Swan, 2009). Anyone can develop skin cancer, but by being aware of the populations at a higher risk, nurses can apply this knowledge during their daily patient assessments (Si...