The woman with osteoporosis slipped on the ice and now her wrist hurts. If there is a fracture, what type of fracture is expected?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is C) Colles' fracture. A Colles' fracture is a specific type of fracture that occurs at the distal end of the radius in the forearm, commonly associated with a fall on an outstretched hand. This type of fracture is typical in individuals with osteoporosis due to weakened bones. Option A) Dislocation is incorrect because a dislocation refers to the displacement of bones at a joint, not a fracture. Option B) Open fracture is incorrect because it refers to a fracture where the bone breaks through the skin, which is not typically associated with a Colles' fracture. Option D) Incomplete fracture is incorrect because it involves a crack in the bone but does not fully break through, which is not characteristic of a Colles' fracture. Educationally, understanding the different types of fractures is crucial for healthcare professionals, especially those working in orthopedics or emergency medicine. Recognizing the specific characteristics of fractures helps in accurate diagnosis, treatment planning, and patient care. In this case, linking osteoporosis with a Colles' fracture highlights the importance of considering underlying conditions when assessing injuries.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B) Apply an elastic shrinker before applying the prosthesis. Rationale: It is crucial for the patient to apply an elastic shrinker before donning the prosthesis to help reduce swelling, shape the residual limb, and promote proper fitting of the prosthesis. This step aids in maintaining the proper fit and function of the temporary prosthesis, ensuring the patient's comfort and mobility during the rehabilitation process. Incorrect options: A) Inspecting the residual limb daily for irritation is important, but it is not the most critical step when preparing to use a temporary prosthesis. C) Performing range-of-motion exercises to the affected leg is essential for maintaining joint mobility, but it is not directly related to the proper fitting of the prosthesis. D) Applying alcohol to the residual limb can lead to skin irritation and dryness, which is not recommended for individuals with limb loss. Educational context: Educating patients on the proper care and fitting of prostheses is vital in promoting successful rehabilitation and optimal function. Teaching patients the correct steps to prepare for prosthesis wear helps prevent complications and ensures a better overall outcome in their recovery journey.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The best description the RN can give to the nursing student when asked about arthroplasty is option C: Reconstruction or replacement of a joint to relieve pain and correct deformity. This option is correct because arthroplasty involves the surgical reconstruction or replacement of a damaged joint with an artificial joint to restore function, relieve pain, and correct deformity. Option A is incorrect because arthroplasty is not a surgical fusion of a joint, but rather involves replacing or reconstructing the joint. Option B is incorrect as it describes osteotomy, where a wedge or slice of bone is removed to correct bone deformity, not joint replacement. Option D is incorrect as it refers to synovectomy, which is the removal of the synovial membrane in rheumatoid arthritis, not arthroplasty. In an educational context, it is important for nursing students to understand the terminology and procedures related to orthopedic surgeries like arthroplasty as they are common interventions for musculoskeletal disorders. Understanding the purpose and process of arthroplasty helps students provide better care for patients undergoing such procedures and enhances their ability to communicate effectively with healthcare providers and patients regarding treatment options and outcomes.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this question, the correct answer is B) Very malignant and metastasizes early. Osteosarcoma is a primary malignant bone tumor that arises from primitive bone-forming mesenchymal cells. It is known for its aggressive behavior, high malignancy, and tendency to metastasize early, commonly to the lungs. This option accurately describes the nature of osteosarcoma, making it the correct choice. Option A) High rate of local recurrence is incorrect because osteosarcoma is more known for its metastatic potential rather than local recurrence. While local recurrence can occur, it is not a defining characteristic of osteosarcoma. Option C) Arises in cancellous ends of long bones is incorrect because osteosarcoma commonly arises in the metaphyseal region of long bones, which is the area between the diaphysis and epiphysis, rather than specifically in the cancellous ends. Option D) Develops in the medullary cavity of long bones is incorrect because osteosarcoma typically arises in the metaphysis rather than within the medullary cavity of long bones. Educationally, understanding the characteristics of osteosarcoma is crucial for healthcare professionals, especially those working in oncology or orthopedics. Recognizing the aggressive nature of osteosarcoma and its typical presentation in long bones can aid in early diagnosis and appropriate management of this challenging condition.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D) Herniated intervertebral disc. Radicular pain that radiates down the buttock and below the knee, along the distribution of the sciatic nerve, is a classic presentation of sciatica. This condition is commonly caused by compression or irritation of the spinal nerve roots in the lumbar spine, often due to a herniated intervertebral disc. Option A) Cervical disc herniation is incorrect as cervical disc issues typically manifest as neck and arm pain, not as lower extremity pain like in the case of sciatica. Option B) Acute lumbosacral strain is incorrect because while it can cause lower back pain, it does not typically produce the characteristic radiating pain down the leg seen in sciatica. Option C) Degenerative disc disease can cause back pain, but it is not typically associated with the specific distribution of pain seen in sciatica. Understanding the different causes of radicular pain is crucial in diagnosing and managing patients with neurological symptoms. Educating healthcare providers and students about the specific patterns of symptoms associated with different conditions helps in accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment interventions.