To assess for enlarged submandibular lymph nodes, where should the practical nurse palpate on the client?

To assess for enlarged submandibular lymph nodes, the practical nurse should palpate beneath the lower jaw. The submandibular lymph nodes are located in the submandibular triangle, which is situated beneath the mandible or lower jawbone. This area is specifically associated with the submandibular salivary glands and is where the lymph nodes can be located and examined for enlargement or tenderness, indicating possible infection or other medical conditions.

Palpating in front of the ear refers to the preauricular lymph nodes, which are located near the ear and not directly associated with the submandibular region. The back of the neck is associated with cervical lymph nodes, while palpation above the collarbone pertains to supraclavicular nodes. Thus, these locations would not provide the relevant assessment for submandibular lymph nodes.