In report, the nurse is told that the patient has a contracture of the right arm. What does the nurse know this means?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this question, the correct answer is C) Shortening of a muscle or ligament. A contracture refers to a condition where there is a permanent shortening of a muscle or joint, leading to limited movement in that area. This is commonly seen in patients with neurological conditions or prolonged immobility. Option A) A fluid-filled cyst is incorrect because a contracture does not involve a cyst but rather a structural change in the muscle or ligament. Option B) Generalized muscle pain is incorrect as it does not accurately describe a contracture, which is specifically related to the shortening of a muscle or ligament. Option D) Grating sensation between bones with movement is incorrect as it describes a symptom commonly associated with conditions like osteoarthritis, not a contracture. In an educational context, understanding the term "contracture" is crucial for nurses assessing patients with neurological conditions, musculoskeletal issues, or those at risk for immobility-related complications. Recognizing a contracture allows nurses to implement appropriate interventions to prevent further limitations in movement and promote optimal patient outcomes.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D) Specific serotonin receptor agonists such as sumatriptan (Imitrex) for acute migraine and cluster headaches. Sumatriptan works by binding to serotonin receptors in the brain, causing vasoconstriction of the dilated blood vessels that contribute to headache pain. This helps to interrupt the migraine or cluster headache process at the neurochemical level, providing relief. Option A) β-Adrenergic blockers like propranolol are typically used for migraine prevention, not for acute treatment. Option B) Serotonin antagonists like methysergide are not commonly used anymore due to side effects and availability of more effective treatments. Option C) Tricyclic antidepressants such as amitriptyline can be used for migraine prevention, but they do not directly target the pathophysiologic process of acute migraine or cluster headaches. Educationally, understanding the rationale behind specific drug therapies for different types of headaches is crucial for healthcare providers to effectively manage and treat patients with these conditions. This knowledge helps in making informed decisions regarding appropriate medications based on the underlying pathophysiology of the headache disorder.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In assessing Parkinson's disease, the correct answer is B) relief of symptoms with administration of dopaminergic agents. This is the gold standard for confirming Parkinson's disease as it is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by dopamine deficiency in the brain. Dopaminergic agents help alleviate symptoms by increasing dopamine levels. Option A) CT and MRI scans are not typically used to confirm Parkinson's disease as they do not directly show the specific dopamine deficiency that characterizes the disease. These imaging techniques may be used to rule out other conditions that could present with similar symptoms. Option C) the presence of tremors that increase during voluntary movement is a common symptom of Parkinson's disease, but it is not specific enough to confirm the diagnosis on its own as other conditions can also cause tremors. Option D) cerebral angiogram revealing cerebral atherosclerosis is unrelated to Parkinson's disease. Parkinson's is not caused by atherosclerosis, but rather by the degeneration of dopamine-producing cells in the brain. Educationally, understanding the diagnostic criteria for Parkinson's disease is crucial for healthcare providers to accurately identify and manage patients with this condition. Knowing the importance of dopaminergic agents in symptom relief helps in providing appropriate treatment and improving patient outcomes. It is also essential to differentiate Parkinson's disease from other conditions with similar symptoms to ensure proper management and care.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is D) Self-care activities. When assessing the neurological system, the nurse must consider the impact on the patient's ability to perform self-care activities such as grooming, bathing, toileting, and dressing. Neurological conditions can affect motor skills, coordination, and cognitive function, making it challenging for patients to engage in these activities independently. Option A) Eating could be impacted by neurological conditions, but it is not the most comprehensive answer in terms of addressing the patient's overall self-care needs. Option B) Walking focuses on mobility, which is also important but does not encompass the full range of self-care activities. Option C) Dressing is a specific aspect of self-care, but choosing option D) demonstrates a broader understanding of the patient's holistic needs. In an educational context, understanding the impact of neurological conditions on self-care activities is crucial for nurses to provide comprehensive and patient-centered care. By selecting option D), nurses demonstrate their ability to assess the patient's functional abilities comprehensively and identify areas where the patient may require assistance or accommodations. This knowledge is essential for developing individualized care plans and promoting the patient's independence and quality of life.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C) Cover the cast with a light blanket to avoid chilling from evaporation. This is the correct action to take because when a hip spica cast is applied, it is important to prevent chilling from the drying process. Covering the cast with a light blanket helps retain the patient's body heat and prevents hypothermia. Option A) Elevating the legs above the level of the heart for 24 hours is not necessary and could potentially cause discomfort to the patient with a hip spica cast. Option B) Turning the patient every 2 hours is important for preventing pressure ulcers and maintaining circulation, but it is not the immediate priority while the cast is drying. Option D) Assessing the patient frequently for abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting is important in general care but is not directly related to the application of the hip spica cast. In an educational context, it is crucial for nurses to understand the specific care requirements for patients with different types of casts to prevent complications and ensure optimal recovery. Teaching correct procedures for cast care is essential to promote patient comfort and safety.