ATI RN
Neurological Vital Signs Assessment Questions
Question 1 of 5
What is plica syndrome of the knee?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because plica syndrome of the knee refers to an extension or vestigial structure of the protective synovial capsule of the knee becoming irritated or inflamed, leading to anterior knee pain and weakness. This is the most accurate description of the condition. Choice A is incorrect because plica syndrome is not caused by a duplicated meniscus. Choice B is also incorrect as it describes knee pain and weakness related to rheumatoid arthritis, not plica syndrome. Choice C is incorrect as it refers to a synovial fold in the femorotibial joint, which is not specific to plica syndrome.
Question 2 of 5
Which of the following correctly describes phonophoresis?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because phonophoresis involves using ultrasound to drive topical medications into tissue. Ultrasound waves help enhance the penetration of medications through the skin and into deeper tissues. This method is effective for localized pain management and inflammation. Choice B is incorrect because using electric current to drive medications into tissue is known as iontophoresis, not phonophoresis. Choice C is incorrect as massage alone cannot drive topical medications into tissue. Choice D is incorrect because using cold spray to numb a painful area is a form of cryotherapy, not phonophoresis. In summary, phonophoresis involves ultrasound to enhance medication penetration, differing from iontophoresis, massage, and cryotherapy.
Question 3 of 5
Which of the following is a contraindication for the use of contrast baths?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D - Buerger's disease. Contrast baths involve alternating hot and cold water immersion, which can worsen symptoms in patients with Buerger's disease due to compromised blood flow. For the other options, A: Rheumatoid arthritis and C: Muscular strain are not contraindications, as contrast baths can help with inflammation and improve circulation. B: Complex regional pain syndrome may benefit from contrast baths to help with pain management.
Question 4 of 5
Which of these techniques uses the sense of touch to assess texture, temperature, moisture, and swelling when the nurse is assessing a patient?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Palpation. Palpation is a technique that involves using the sense of touch to assess various aspects such as texture, temperature, moisture, and swelling during a patient assessment. This technique allows the nurse to feel for abnormalities, tenderness, or changes in the patient's body. It is a crucial part of a physical examination as it provides valuable information about the patient's condition. Explanation of why the other choices are incorrect: B: Inspection involves visual examination and does not involve the sense of touch. C: Percussion is a technique that involves tapping the body to assess underlying structures and is not related to using the sense of touch. D: Auscultation involves listening to sounds within the body using a stethoscope and does not involve the sense of touch.
Question 5 of 5
Bill, a 55-year-old man, presents with pain in his epigastrium which lasts for 30 minutes or more at a time and has started recently. Which of the following should be considered?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: All of the above. 1. Epigastric pain lasting 30+ minutes suggests a serious condition. 2. Peptic ulcer: Common cause of epigastric pain, especially if worsened by food. 3. Pancreatitis: Presents with severe epigastric pain that may radiate to the back. 4. Myocardial ischemia: Can manifest as epigastric discomfort, especially in older individuals. Summary: All choices are valid considerations due to the severity and location of the pain, making D the correct answer.