ATI RN
NCLEX Questions on Skin Integrity and Wound Care Questions
Question 1 of 5
The nurse should reposition the patient who has just had a laminectomy and diskectomy by
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because placing a pillow between the patient's legs and turning the entire body as a unit reduces stress on the surgical site, preventing strain on the back muscles. This technique maintains proper alignment and supports the spine post-surgery. Choice A is incorrect because instructing the patient to move the legs before turning the rest of the body can potentially strain the back and surgical site. Choice B is incorrect as having the patient turn by grasping the side rails and pulling the shoulders over can also lead to strain on the back and surgical site. Choice D is incorrect because turning the patient's head and shoulders first, followed by the hips, legs, and feet can cause twisting and stress on the surgical site.
Question 2 of 5
Which information will the nurse include when teaching a patient with acute low back pain (select the one that does not apply)?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Keep the knees straight when leaning forward to pick something up. This recommendation can increase stress on the lower back and worsen the pain. To prevent low back pain, it is important to bend the knees and use proper body mechanics when lifting objects. The other choices are correct: A: Sleeping in a prone position with the legs extended can help alleviate back pain; C: Acute low back pain typically improves within a few weeks with proper management; D: Avoiding activities that require twisting of the back or prolonged sitting can prevent exacerbation of low back pain.
Question 3 of 5
Papulosquamous dermatoses, such as psoriasis, are a group of skin disorders characterized by:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Scaling papules. Papulosquamous dermatoses like psoriasis are characterized by scaly papules on the skin. The term "papulosquamous" refers to papules (small, raised bumps) with scales. Psoriasis specifically presents as red, scaly patches on the skin. The other choices are incorrect because B: Granular scabbing is not a typical feature of papulosquamous dermatoses, C: Raised red borders are more indicative of other skin conditions like eczema, and D: Nodular ulcerations are not commonly associated with papulosquamous dermatoses.
Question 4 of 5
A 79-year-old client has been confined to bed after a severe hemorrhagic stroke that has caused hemiplegia. Which of the following measures should his care team prioritize in the prevention of pressure ulcers?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Repositioning the client on a scheduled basis. This is crucial in preventing pressure ulcers in immobile patients by relieving pressure on vulnerable areas. Repositioning helps to improve blood flow, reduce tissue damage, and prevent skin breakdown. Prophylactic antibiotics (Choice A) are not indicated for pressure ulcer prevention. Applying protective dressings (Choice C) may offer some protection but does not address the root cause of pressure ulcers. Parenteral nutrition (Choice D) is important for providing essential nutrients but is not directly related to preventing pressure ulcers. In summary, regular repositioning is the most effective measure in preventing pressure ulcers in immobile patients.
Question 5 of 5
Which of the following changes in aging skin best explains why an elderly person is at increased risk for a skin tear injury?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Aging skin's fragility stems from structural shifts, with 'decreased size of rete ridges' best explaining skin tear risk. Rete ridges epidermal-dermal junctions flatten with age e.g., from 0.2 mm to 0.1 mm reducing adhesion, per Baranoski and Ayello (2004), so minor shear (e.g., tape removal) tears skin. , 'increased epidermal migration,' is false; it slows e.g., healing drops 50% not aiding tears. , 'increased sebum,' reverses; secretion falls e.g., 20% less oil drying skin but not tearing it. , 'decreased dermal thickness,' thins skin e.g., 0.5 mm over tibia vs. 1 mm young but pressure ulcers, not tears, rise here. An 80-year-old's paper-thin arm e.g., 70% tear incidence shows rete ridge loss trumps thickness for tears, a nurse's assessment key in geriatrics. Unlike pressure risk over bones, tears exploit epidermal detachment, per *Wound Care Essentials*, making the precise, primary cause.