It is important for the nurse to maintain proper pin care for which of the following methods of treating a fracture?

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: 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.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, option B is the correct answer: "There is redness around the pin sites." This finding should be reported immediately because it could indicate an infection at the pin sites, which can lead to serious complications such as osteomyelitis or sepsis. In a patient with a fractured fibula receiving skeletal traction, any signs of infection must be addressed promptly to prevent further harm. Option A, "The patient wants to change position in bed," is not as urgent as redness around the pin sites. While repositioning is important for patient comfort and prevention of complications like pressure ulcers, it does not indicate an immediate threat to the patient's health in this context. Option C, "The patient asks for a glass of water," and option D, "The patient mentions feeling hungry," are basic care needs that can be addressed after ensuring the patient's safety and addressing any potential complications like infection. These requests do not indicate an urgent issue that requires immediate attention in the context of a fractured fibula with skeletal traction. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of recognizing and prioritizing patient care needs based on the urgency of the situation. It underscores the significance of prompt reporting and intervention in cases where complications such as infections can arise, particularly in patients with orthopedic injuries under traction. Nurses and nursing assistants must be vigilant in monitoring for changes in patients' conditions to provide timely and effective care.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B) Apply insect repellant to clothing and exposed skin. Rationale: Insect bites can lead to discomfort, itching, and even potential infections. Applying insect repellant is an effective way to prevent insect bites by creating a barrier between the skin and insects. This advice is crucial to prevent the recurrence of insect bites, especially when individuals are outdoors where they are more likely to encounter insects. Option A) Preventing strenuous exercises by the client when outdoors is not directly related to preventing insect bites. While resting may reduce the likelihood of attracting insects due to sweat and increased body heat, it is not a primary preventive measure against insect bites. Option C) Wearing thick woolen clothing to cover the skin while outdoors may provide some protection against insect bites, but it is not as effective as using insect repellant. Thick clothing may also not be suitable for warm weather or outdoor activities where mobility is important. Option D) Avoiding daily baths to the client with soaps is not a recommended practice for preventing insect bites. Maintaining good hygiene through regular bathing is important for overall skin health but does not directly prevent insect bites. Educational Context: As a nurse, it is essential to educate individuals on preventive measures to safeguard their health. Providing accurate information on how to prevent insect bites is crucial in promoting wellness and preventing potential complications. By understanding the rationale behind each option, nurses can effectively educate patients on the most appropriate strategies to protect themselves from insect bites, ultimately improving patient outcomes.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer to the question is C) Call the physician. In this scenario, the client with a spinal cord injury at T3 is exhibiting symptoms suggestive of autonomic dysreflexia, a potentially life-threatening condition. Autonomic dysreflexia is a medical emergency that requires immediate intervention. By calling the physician, the nurse can ensure that the client receives prompt assessment and appropriate treatment to prevent serious complications such as hypertensive crisis, seizures, or stroke. Option A) Raise the client's head is incorrect because while elevating the head may help alleviate symptoms of autonomic dysreflexia, it is not the first action to take. Calling the physician is more urgent. Option B) Placing the client on a firm mattress is irrelevant to the management of autonomic dysreflexia and does not address the client's current symptoms. Option D) Administering an analgesic to relieve the pain is inappropriate because the priority in this situation is to identify and address the underlying cause of the symptoms, which is autonomic dysreflexia. Pain relief should not be the initial intervention. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of recognizing and managing autonomic dysreflexia in clients with spinal cord injuries. Nurses must be able to assess for signs and symptoms of this condition and initiate appropriate interventions promptly to prevent serious complications and ensure client safety.