The nurse is performing a musculoskeletal assessment and notes that the patient has a decreased range of motion in the knee joint. What is the most likely cause of this finding?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is A) Osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that commonly affects the knee joint, leading to a decreased range of motion. This condition is characterized by the breakdown of cartilage in the joint, causing pain, stiffness, and limited movement. Rheumatoid arthritis (option B) is an autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the small joints of the hands and feet, rather than the knee joint. Gout (option C) is a form of arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, typically affecting the big toe but not commonly causing decreased range of motion in the knee. Bursitis (option D) is the inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs that cushion the joints and is more likely to cause localized pain and swelling rather than limited range of motion. Educationally, understanding the different causes of decreased range of motion in joints is crucial for nurses to accurately assess and provide appropriate care for patients. By knowing the specific characteristics of each condition, nurses can better differentiate between them and collaborate effectively with healthcare providers to develop comprehensive treatment plans. This knowledge enhances patient outcomes and ensures high-quality care delivery.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: A cuff too large underestimates blood pressure, leading to an incorrect reading , as it doesnt compress the artery properly. It wont cause significant injury or dangerous pressure , though a too-small cuff might. Korotkoff sounds remain audible but may be misread. Choice A is correct, emphasizing accuracy in measurement technique, a key teaching point for nursing students.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: A ceiling fan moves air over the patient, causing heat loss via convection , where warm air around the body is replaced by cooler moving air. Radiation involves heat emission without contact, not fan-driven. Conduction requires direct contact (e.g., cold pack), not air movement. Evaporation involves moisture loss, not primarily fan-related here. Choice C is correct because convection matches the mechanism of air circulation enhancing heat dissipation, a principle nurses apply in thermoregulation strategies to cool patients effectively in clinical settings.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is A) 30 to 60. Newborn infants typically have a faster respiratory rate compared to older children and adults. A normal respiratory rate for a newborn is considered to be between 30 to 60 breaths per minute. Option B) 22 to 28 is more reflective of a normal respiratory rate for an older child or adult, and would be considered abnormal for a newborn. Option C) 16 to 20 is also within the range for an older child or adult, not a newborn. Option D) 10 to 15 is too low for a newborn and would indicate respiratory distress. Educationally, understanding the normal vital sign ranges for different age groups is crucial for healthcare professionals, especially for those working with newborns. This knowledge ensures appropriate assessment, early detection of potential issues, and timely intervention to promote the health and well-being of newborns. It also highlights the importance of individualized care based on age-specific physiological differences.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Respiratory distress includes grunting and nasal flaring as effort signs, raspy breathing from obstruction, and panicked look/sweating from stressall are indicators. Choice D is correct, as nurses identify these clinical signs per respiratory assessment protocols (e.g., PALS), prompting urgent intervention for airway or oxygenation problems.