ATI RN
Neurological System Assessment Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
Until doctor's orders are received, the most appropriate position for Mr. Jones is lying
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In the case of Mr. Jones, the most appropriate position until doctor's orders are received is lying on his right side. This position is preferred as it helps reduce pressure on the vena cava, the large vein that returns blood to the heart. By lying on the right side, Mr. Jones can optimize blood flow and cardiac output, which is crucial for patients in compromised health states. Option A, lying flat on his back, may impede blood flow through the vena cava, leading to decreased cardiac output and potential complications. Option B, lying on his left side, can compress the vena cava, also hindering blood flow. Option D, lying on his abdomen, is not suitable as it can cause respiratory distress and compromise airway patency. In an educational context, understanding the rationale behind positioning patients is crucial for nursing and medical students. It ensures safe and effective patient care by promoting optimal physiological function and preventing complications. Clinical reasoning skills are honed through understanding the implications of different positions on patient outcomes.
Question 2 of 5
When Mr. Singer is discharged he should know that, at home, he can best relieve the pain and early morning stiffness after a night's sleep by
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is option B: taking a hot bath followed by a short rest period in the early morning. This is the most appropriate way to relieve pain and stiffness in the joints after a night's sleep for Mr. Singer. Hot baths help to relax the muscles and joints, improve circulation, and reduce stiffness. The warmth from the hot water can also help to alleviate pain and discomfort. Following the hot bath with a short rest period allows the body to continue to relax and adjust before engaging in activities, which can further alleviate stiffness. Options A, C, and D are incorrect. Taking narcotic analgesics when he first arises (option A) may provide temporary relief, but it is not the best long-term solution and may have side effects. Applying cold applications (option C) may help with acute inflammation, but it is not ideal for relieving stiffness in the morning. Applying hot paraffin (option D) may also provide some relief, but it is not as effective as a hot bath followed by rest for overall joint pain and stiffness. In an educational context, it is important to teach patients like Mr. Singer about self-management strategies for pain and stiffness associated with conditions like arthritis. By understanding the benefits of hot baths and rest in the morning, patients can incorporate these simple yet effective practices into their daily routine to improve their quality of life and manage their condition better.
Question 3 of 5
The nursing diagnosis of a patient with periarteritis nodosa may include which one of the following?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A) Tissue impairment due to oxygen deprivation. Periarteritis nodosa is a condition characterized by inflammation and damage to the medium-sized arteries, leading to tissue ischemia. This results in oxygen deprivation to the affected tissues, causing tissue impairment. Therefore, the nursing diagnosis for a patient with periarteritis nodosa would involve addressing the issue of tissue impairment due to oxygen deprivation. Option B) Impaired swallowing due to muscle weakness is not directly related to periarteritis nodosa. While muscle weakness can occur in some neurological conditions, it is not a typical manifestation of this specific disease. Option C) Impaired mobility due to pain may be a symptom associated with periarteritis nodosa, but it is not the primary nursing diagnosis. Pain management would be part of the nursing care, but it does not encompass the main issue of tissue impairment due to oxygen deprivation. Option D) Impaired homeostasis due to inflammation is a broad and generic option that does not specifically address the pathophysiology of periarteritis nodosa. While inflammation is a key feature of the condition, the primary concern is the resulting tissue impairment due to oxygen deprivation. In an educational context, understanding the specific nursing diagnoses associated with different conditions is crucial for providing effective and individualized care to patients. By correctly identifying the primary issue, nurses can develop appropriate care plans to address the most pressing needs of the patient and promote optimal health outcomes.
Question 4 of 5
Which of the following methods would best help the nurse determine the degree of a traumatic musculoskeletal injury?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In assessing a traumatic musculoskeletal injury, comparing structures and assessment findings on one side of the body with those on the opposite side (Option D) is the best method to determine the degree of injury. This approach allows the nurse to identify any discrepancies or abnormalities between the injured and uninjured sides, providing a clearer picture of the extent of the injury. Palpating the injured area (Option A) may elicit pain but does not provide a comprehensive understanding of the injury's severity. Applying force and asking the client to push back (Option B) can potentially worsen the injury or cause unnecessary discomfort. Encouraging movement of the injured area (Option C) may be contraindicated in certain cases where movement could exacerbate the injury. In an educational context, understanding the rationale behind comparing structures on both sides of the body enhances the nurse's assessment skills. This method not only helps in determining the degree of injury but also aids in identifying asymmetries or abnormalities that may have gone unnoticed with a single-sided assessment. It reinforces the importance of thorough and systematic evaluation in providing optimal patient care.
Question 5 of 5
A client who underwent an amputation a week ago still feels an itching sensation or a dull pain in the missing limb. Which of the following nursing actions would help the client in getting relief?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D) Discuss the phenomenon of phantom pain with the client. Phantom pain is a common phenomenon where an individual feels sensations, such as itching or pain, in a limb that has been amputated. By discussing this with the client, the nurse can help educate them about the normalcy of these sensations and provide reassurance that they are not alone in experiencing them. This can help alleviate anxiety and distress associated with these sensations. Option A is incorrect because seeking additional analgesics may not necessarily address phantom limb pain, as it is not caused by physical issues in the residual limb. Option B is incorrect as meeting a psychiatrist may not be necessary unless there are accompanying mental health concerns. Option C is incorrect as surgical removal of nerve endings is not a standard practice for managing phantom pain and may not effectively alleviate the sensations. In an educational context, understanding and addressing phantom pain is crucial for nurses caring for clients who have undergone amputations. By educating clients about phantom pain and providing appropriate support and reassurance, nurses can significantly improve their clients' quality of life and emotional well-being during the recovery process.