ATI LPN
Neurological Assessment NCLEX Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
A 34-year-old woman is brought to the emergency department by her husband due to worsening lower extremity weakness. Her symptoms began approximately one week prior to presentation, when she experienced mild weakness of the left leg, causing her to limp. The lower extremity weakness progressed to the point of not being able to get out of bed. The patient also reports a period of left arm weakness and numbness eight months ago that spontaneously resolved over the course of a few days. Approximately two weeks ago, she experienced an upper respiratory infection that has resolved. Her temperature is 98.6°F (37°C), pulse is 74/min, respiratory rate 18/min, blood pressure 129/75 mm Hg. Neurological exam is significant for 1/5 strength in both lower extremities and 3+ patellar tendon reflexes. A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain and spine is performed. Which of the following is the best initial treatment?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Progressive weakness with prior resolved episode and hyperreflexia suggest an MS relapse. IV methylprednisolone is the initial treatment for acute exacerbations to reduce inflammation.
Question 2 of 5
The speed of impulse conduction along an axon may be increased by
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The myelin sheath insulates axons, enabling saltatory conduction, which significantly speeds up impulse transmission by allowing it to jump between nodes of Ranvier.
Question 3 of 5
One neurotransmitter associated with sleep, mood, attention, and learning is
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Serotonin regulates sleep, mood, attention, and learning, synthesized in the raphe nuclei and widely distributed in the brain.
Question 4 of 5
Which of the following results from stimulation by the parasympathetic nervous system?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The parasympathetic system promotes 'rest and digest,' stimulating salivation, unlike sympathetic effects like increased heart rate.
Question 5 of 5
Which of the following statements regarding brain activity is true?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: PET and fMRI map brain activity to functions; Gage’s injury was prefrontal, and hemispherectomy/corpus callosotomy patients can survive and function.