ATI RN
Neurological System Assessment Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
What is the function of the dendrite?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B) Carries impulses to the nerve cell body. Dendrites are specialized extensions of a nerve cell that receive signals from other neurons and carry these signals towards the cell body. This function is crucial for integrating and processing incoming information within the neuron. Option A) A gap in the peripheral nerve axons, is incorrect because it describes a synapse, which is the junction between two neurons where signals are transmitted, not a dendrite. Option C) Carries impulses from the nerve cell body, is incorrect as it describes the function of the axon, which carries signals away from the cell body to other neurons or effector cells. Option D) May occur with damage to peripheral axons, is incorrect as it refers to axonal damage, not the function of dendrites. In an educational context, understanding the function of dendrites is essential for grasping how signals are transmitted and processed in the nervous system. This knowledge is foundational for students studying neuroscience, neurology, or any field related to the neurological system. It helps in comprehending how neurons communicate and how disruptions in this process can lead to various neurological disorders.
Question 2 of 5
Priority Decision: The patient was in a traffic collision and is experiencing loss of function below C4. Which effect must the nurse be aware of to provide priority care for the patient?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is B) Loss of all respiratory muscle function. When a patient experiences loss of function below C4 after a traumatic event like a traffic collision, it can lead to impaired respiratory muscle function. The nurse must be aware of this effect as it poses an immediate threat to the patient's life due to the potential for respiratory failure. Option A) Respiratory diaphragmatic breathing is not the priority concern in this situation because the patient is experiencing loss of function below C4, which would impact the function of the respiratory muscles, not just the diaphragm. Option C) Decreased response of the sympathetic nervous system is not the priority because the immediate threat to the patient's life is the potential loss of respiratory muscle function leading to respiratory compromise. Option D) GI hypomotility with paralytic ileus and gastric distention is not the priority concern in this case as the patient's respiratory status takes precedence over gastrointestinal issues. In an educational context, understanding the hierarchy of priorities in assessing and managing patients with neurological injuries is crucial for nurses. Rapid identification of respiratory compromise in patients with spinal cord injuries is essential to prevent further complications and ensure timely interventions to maintain adequate oxygenation and ventilation.
Question 3 of 5
A patient with a metastatic tumor of the spinal cord is scheduled for removal of the tumor by a laminectomy. In planning postoperative care for the patient, what should the nurse recognize?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In this scenario, option B is the correct answer. Metastatic tumors of the spinal cord are commonly extradural lesions, meaning they are located outside the spinal cord and are typically treated palliatively. This is because complete removal of these tumors may not be possible due to their location and the potential risks involved in trying to remove them entirely. Option A is incorrect because most cord tumors do not cause autodestruction of the cord as in traumatic injuries. Option C is incorrect because radiation therapy is not routinely administered following surgery for all malignant spinal cord tumors; the decision to use radiation therapy would depend on the specific case and treatment plan. Option D is incorrect because while surgery for intramedullary tumors may be considered palliative in some cases, it is not always the case for all spinal cord tumors. Educationally, understanding the nature of spinal cord tumors and their treatment options is crucial for nurses caring for patients undergoing surgeries like laminectomies. It is important for nurses to recognize the differences in treatment approaches for various types of spinal cord tumors to provide optimal postoperative care and support for their patients.
Question 4 of 5
In report, the nurse is told that the patient has a contracture of the right arm. What does the nurse know this means?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In this question, the correct answer is C) Shortening of a muscle or ligament. A contracture refers to a condition where there is a permanent shortening of a muscle or joint, leading to limited movement in that area. This is commonly seen in patients with neurological conditions or prolonged immobility. Option A) A fluid-filled cyst is incorrect because a contracture does not involve a cyst but rather a structural change in the muscle or ligament. Option B) Generalized muscle pain is incorrect as it does not accurately describe a contracture, which is specifically related to the shortening of a muscle or ligament. Option D) Grating sensation between bones with movement is incorrect as it describes a symptom commonly associated with conditions like osteoarthritis, not a contracture. In an educational context, understanding the term "contracture" is crucial for nurses assessing patients with neurological conditions, musculoskeletal issues, or those at risk for immobility-related complications. Recognizing a contracture allows nurses to implement appropriate interventions to prevent further limitations in movement and promote optimal patient outcomes.
Question 5 of 5
The incidence of ischemic stroke in patients with TIAs and other risk factors is reduced with the administration of which medication?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In the context of neurological system assessment and stroke prevention, the correct answer to the question is option C) Daily low-dose aspirin. This is because aspirin, specifically in low doses, is a well-established medication for reducing the risk of ischemic stroke in patients with TIAs (transient ischemic attacks) and other risk factors. Aspirin works by inhibiting platelet aggregation, thereby reducing the formation of blood clots that can lead to blockages in the blood vessels supplying the brain, causing an ischemic stroke. Option A) Furosemide (Lasix) is a diuretic often used to manage fluid retention but does not play a role in stroke prevention. Option B) Lovastatin (Mevacor) is a statin medication used to lower cholesterol levels and prevent cardiovascular events but is not specifically indicated for stroke prevention. Option D) Nimodipine (Nimotop) is a calcium channel blocker that is used in certain situations related to subarachnoid hemorrhage but is not the recommended medication for reducing the risk of ischemic stroke in patients with TIAs. In an educational context, understanding the appropriate medications for stroke prevention is crucial for healthcare professionals involved in assessing and managing patients at risk for cerebrovascular events. By knowing the rationale behind the use of daily low-dose aspirin in this population, healthcare providers can make informed decisions to optimize patient care and reduce the incidence of ischemic strokes. It is essential to reinforce the importance of evidence-based practice and staying updated on current guidelines to deliver high-quality care to patients at risk for stroke.