As the community health nurse, you meet with Mrs. Rollo 1 week after discharge. She complains to you of increasing joint pain and stiffness despite adherence to the discharge plan for medication therapy and heat treatments. Which of the following aspects would you initially want to evaluate?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct initial aspect to evaluate is the balance between exercise and rest (Option B). This is because increasing joint pain and stiffness could be related to overexertion or inadequate rest periods, especially considering the patient's neurological condition. It is crucial to assess if Mrs. Rollo is engaging in appropriate levels of physical activity and allowing for sufficient rest to prevent exacerbation of her symptoms. Option A (Diet) may be important for overall health, but in this case, joint pain and stiffness are more likely related to physical activity and rest. Option C (Use of fad diet or appliances) is not directly relevant to the symptoms described. Option D (Feelings of self-worth and self-concept) is important in a holistic assessment but is not the priority when addressing physical symptoms like joint pain and stiffness in this context. From an educational perspective, this question highlights the importance of considering lifestyle factors in assessing and managing patient symptoms, especially in individuals with neurological conditions. It emphasizes the need for a comprehensive approach to care that takes into account the interconnectedness of physical and mental well-being. This rationale reinforces the significance of critical thinking and prioritization in nursing practice, particularly in community health settings where holistic care is essential.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D) Fracture formation. Patients with a history of osteoporosis have an increased risk of fractures due to the weakened and porous nature of their bones. Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by low bone density and increased bone fragility, making individuals more susceptible to fractures, especially in weight-bearing bones like the hip, spine, and wrist. Option A) Infection in the bone is not directly related to osteoporosis. Osteomyelitis, or bone infection, is more commonly associated with factors such as trauma, surgery, or compromised immune function. Option B) Peripheral blood clot formation is not a typical risk associated with osteoporosis. Blood clot formation is more commonly linked to conditions like deep vein thrombosis or atherosclerosis. Option C) Painful joint inflammation is not a direct consequence of osteoporosis. Joint inflammation is more commonly seen in conditions like arthritis, which affect the synovial joints rather than the bone density itself. Educational Context: Understanding the complications associated with osteoporosis is crucial for healthcare professionals, especially those preparing for the NCLEX exam. Recognizing the increased risk of fractures in individuals with osteoporosis is essential for providing appropriate care and preventive measures to reduce the likelihood of bone injuries. This knowledge helps in promoting patient safety and quality of life for individuals with this condition.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the context of treating a fracture, maintaining proper pin care is crucial for external fixation. External fixation involves the use of pins, screws, or wires attached to external rods to stabilize the fracture site. Proper pin care is essential to prevent infection, ensure stability, and promote healing in external fixation. Option A, closed reduction, involves manipulating the fractured bone back into place without surgery, making pin care unnecessary. Option B, open reduction, involves surgical exposure of the fracture site and internal fixation with plates or screws, not pins, so pin care is not applicable. Option D, internal fixation, involves the use of implants like plates or screws inside the body, not external pins, so pin care is not relevant in this method. Educationally, understanding the importance of proper pin care in external fixation is crucial for nurses caring for patients with fractures. It ensures that nurses can provide safe and effective care, prevent complications such as infection, and support optimal outcomes for patients undergoing this type of treatment. Nurses must be knowledgeable about the specific care requirements for each method of fracture treatment to deliver comprehensive care to their patients.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B) Caution the client against discontinuing the prescribed drugs. This instruction is crucial because even though the client is feeling better, stopping the prescribed medication prematurely can lead to a relapse or worsening of the disease. It is important for the client to complete the full course of medication as prescribed by their healthcare provider to ensure optimal recovery and prevent complications. Option A) Advise the client to reduce the dosage of the prescribed drugs is incorrect because altering the dosage without consulting a healthcare provider can be dangerous and may compromise the effectiveness of the treatment. Option C) Encouraging the client to resume heavy activity is incorrect as it can put unnecessary stress on the bones and hinder the healing process. Gradual return to activities should be advised based on the healthcare provider's recommendations. Option D) Encouraging the client to gain weight is also incorrect as it is not directly related to the management of a bone disease unless specifically indicated by the healthcare provider for a particular condition. In an educational context, this question highlights the importance of medication compliance in the management of chronic diseases like bone disorders. Nurses play a crucial role in patient education by providing clear instructions and reinforcing the importance of following the prescribed treatment plan to achieve the best outcomes for the client's health.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is A) Frontal lobe. The inability to speak is a classic symptom of Broca's aphasia, which is commonly associated with lesions in the frontal lobe of the brain. The frontal lobe is responsible for speech production and language processing. Damage to this area can result in expressive language deficits like the inability to form words or sentences. Option B) Occipital lobe is responsible for visual processing, so a tumor in this area would not typically cause speech difficulties. Option C) Cerebellum plays a role in coordination and balance, not speech production. Option D) Parietal lobe is involved in sensory perception and spatial awareness, not speech. Educationally, understanding the localization of brain functions is crucial for healthcare professionals, especially nurses preparing for the NCLEX. Knowing the specific areas of the brain associated with different functions helps in assessing and caring for patients with neurological conditions. This knowledge aids in identifying potential issues, providing appropriate interventions, and collaborating effectively with the healthcare team to ensure optimal patient outcomes.