ATI LPN
Study Guide for Fundamentals of Nursing Care: Concepts, Connections & Skills
Chapter 27 : Musculoskeletal Care Questions
Question 1 of 5
You are caring for a young child with hip dysplasia who is in a spica cast. An important nursing concern is
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In a spica cast, the abductor bar maintains hip alignment and should not be used to move the patient, as this could disrupt the cast or alignment. Circulation is assessed in the toes, not fingers.
Question 2 of 5
A patient is admitted with an elevated temperature and complaining of pain under his arm cast. A bad odor is noted coming from the elbow area of the cast. The patient tells you that his arm has been itching a great deal under the cast. What concern do you have?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Fever, pain, odor, and itching suggest a possible infection under the cast, likely from skin damage. Gangrene is less likely without systemic symptoms, and bone healing issues don't cause odor.
Question 3 of 5
What patient teaching will you do for the patient described in Question 29?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Using a blow dryer on cool air safely relieves itching under a cast. Scratching with objects risks skin damage, hot air could cause burns, and explaining cell buildup is not actionable teaching.
Question 4 of 5
A patient has a quarter-size amount of drainage on her cast. The next day the amount of drainage has increased to 2 inches (5 cm) in diameter. The nurse would be most concerned about
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Increasing drainage on a cast suggests possible infection, requiring immediate attention. Swelling or neurovascular issues are less directly tied to drainage.
Question 5 of 5
The purpose of a trapeze bar is to
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: A trapeze bar allows patients to grip and reposition in bed, promoting independence and mobility.