ATI RN
NCLEX Skin Integrity Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
A patient with atopic dermatitis has been using a high-potency topical corticosteroid ointment for several weeks. The nurse should assess for which adverse effect?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Thinning of the affected skin. High-potency topical corticosteroids can lead to skin atrophy, causing thinning of the skin with prolonged use. This adverse effect is important to assess for as it can increase the risk of skin fragility and potential for skin tears or bruising. Choice B: Alopecia of the affected areas is not typically associated with the use of topical corticosteroids, so it is an incorrect choice. Choice C: Dryness and scaling are common symptoms of atopic dermatitis itself, not directly caused by the corticosteroid ointment, making this choice incorrect. Choice D: Reddish-brown skin discoloration is not a common adverse effect of topical corticosteroids and is not typically seen with their use, making this choice incorrect.
Question 2 of 5
Which information in a 67-yr-old woman’s health history will alert the nurse to the need for a more focused assessment of the musculoskeletal system?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B. A significant height loss in the patient's mother with aging suggests potential osteoporosis, a musculoskeletal issue common in older women. This would prompt a more focused assessment of the patient's musculoskeletal system to evaluate for osteoporosis risk factors, such as family history. Choices A, C, and D do not directly relate to musculoskeletal health or risk factors for musculoskeletal conditions. A past ankle sprain at age 13 is not a current issue; taking ibuprofen for headaches is more related to the neurological system, and the father's cause of death does not provide relevant information for assessing the patient's musculoskeletal health.
Question 3 of 5
Which finding for a 77-yr-old patient seen in the outpatient clinic requires further nursing assessment and intervention?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because a history of recent loss of balance and fall in an elderly patient may indicate potential underlying issues such as vestibular dysfunction, neurological problems, medication side effects, or musculoskeletal issues. Further assessment and intervention are crucial to prevent future falls and ensure patient safety. A: Symmetric joint swelling of fingers is common in older adults and may be related to arthritis or other degenerative conditions, but it does not necessarily require immediate intervention. B: Decreased right knee range of motion could be due to age-related changes or arthritis, which may warrant assessment but does not pose an immediate safety risk. C: Report of left hip aching when jogging may indicate musculoskeletal issues or overuse injury, but it does not pose an immediate safety concern that requires urgent intervention.
Question 4 of 5
A patient with a fracture of the left femoral neck has Buck’s traction in place while waiting for surgery. To assess for pressure areas on the patient’s back and sacral area and to provide skin care, the nurse should
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because using a trapeze to lift the buttocks slightly allows for pressure relief on the back and sacral area without compromising the traction. A: Loosening the traction can lead to displacement of the fracture and should be avoided. B: Placing a pillow between the legs does not directly address pressure areas on the back and sacral area. D: Turning the patient partially with assistance may not provide adequate pressure relief on the back and sacral area.
Question 5 of 5
A patient who has had open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of a hip fracture tells the nurse he is ready to get out of bed for the first time. Which action should the nurse take?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Check the patient’s prescribed weight-bearing status. After ORIF of a hip fracture, weight-bearing status is crucial to prevent complications. Checking this ensures the patient follows the appropriate weight-bearing restrictions. B: Using a mechanical lift is not necessary unless the patient is non-weight bearing. C: Delegating to NAP may not ensure proper assessment of weight-bearing status. D: Decreasing pain medication before getting up may lead to increased pain and reluctance to move.