ATI RN
NCLEX Questions on Neurological System Questions
Question 1 of 5
What kind of loss does the nurse recognize this to be?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In this NCLEX question regarding the type of loss being recognized by the nurse, the correct answer is C) Normal forgetfulness. Educational Rationale: 1. Correct Answer: Normal Forgetfulness Normal forgetfulness is a common occurrence in individuals of all ages. It is characterized by occasional lapses in memory such as forgetting names, where you placed your keys, or an appointment time. It is considered part of the normal aging process and is not indicative of a serious neurological condition. 2. Incorrect Answers: A) Delirium: Delirium is a sudden state of confusion and altered consciousness. It is often caused by an underlying medical condition, medication side effects, or drug intoxication. B) Memory loss in AD: Memory loss in Alzheimer's Disease (AD) is progressive and severe, affecting multiple cognitive functions beyond just forgetfulness. D) Memory loss in mild cognitive impairment: Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) is a condition that falls between normal age-related cognitive decline and dementia. Memory loss in MCI is more pronounced and consistent compared to normal forgetfulness. Educational Context: Understanding the differences between normal forgetfulness, delirium, memory loss in Alzheimer's Disease, and memory loss in mild cognitive impairment is crucial for nurses caring for patients with neurological conditions. Recognizing the subtle distinctions between these conditions can help nurses provide appropriate care, support, and interventions tailored to the individual's needs. This knowledge is essential for the accurate assessment and management of patients experiencing cognitive changes.
Question 2 of 5
Which kind of hip fracture is usually repaired with a hip prosthesis?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In the context of NCLEX questions on the neurological system, understanding the types of hip fractures and their respective treatments is crucial. The correct answer is A) Intracapsular. Intracapsular hip fractures occur within the capsule of the hip joint and are often repaired with a hip prosthesis due to the compromised blood supply to the femoral head. This type of fracture typically affects the neck of the femur. Extracapsular (Option B), subtrochanteric (Option C), and intertrochanteric (Option D) hip fractures involve areas outside the hip joint capsule. Extracapsular fractures occur below the neck of the femur, while subtrochanteric fractures occur just below the lesser trochanter, and intertrochanteric fractures happen between the greater and lesser trochanters. These fractures are usually treated with other methods such as internal fixation devices like screws, plates, or nails. Understanding the specific characteristics and treatments for each type of hip fracture is crucial for nurses as they care for patients with these injuries. It helps in providing appropriate care, understanding postoperative management, and recognizing potential complications. This knowledge also aids in patient education and rehabilitation guidance post-surgery.
Question 3 of 5
When positioning the patient after a total hip arthroplasty with a posterior approach, it is important that the nurse maintain the affected extremity in what position?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B) Abduction and extension. After a total hip arthroplasty with a posterior approach, maintaining the affected extremity in abduction helps prevent dislocation of the hip prosthesis. Extension is important to keep the hip from flexing beyond 90 degrees, which could also lead to dislocation. Option A) Adduction and flexion would increase the risk of hip dislocation as it brings the hip into a position that could easily pop the prosthesis out of place. Option C) Abduction and internal rotation could lead to impingement or instability of the hip joint. Option D) Adduction and external rotation also increase the risk of hip dislocation. In an educational context, understanding the proper positioning after hip arthroplasty is crucial for nursing practice to prevent complications and promote patient safety and recovery. Nurses must be knowledgeable about postoperative care interventions to provide optimal care for patients undergoing orthopedic surgeries like hip arthroplasty.
Question 4 of 5
A laminectomy and spinal fusion are performed on a patient with a herniated lumbar intervertebral disc. During the postoperative period, which finding is of most concern to the nurse?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is B) Urinary incontinence. The nurse should be most concerned about urinary incontinence post laminectomy and spinal fusion surgery due to the potential for nerve damage during the procedure. The nerves controlling bladder function could be affected, leading to urinary incontinence. This finding could indicate nerve damage or compression, which needs immediate attention to prevent long-term complications. Option A) Paralytic ileus is not the most concerning finding in this situation as it is a common complication postoperatively but not directly related to the surgical site or procedure. Option C) Greater pain at the graft site than at the lumbar incision site may be expected due to the nature of the surgery involving fusion, but it is not the most concerning finding. Option D) Leg and arm movement and sensation unchanged from preoperative status would actually be a positive finding, indicating that there was no neurological damage during the surgery. Educationally, it is crucial for nurses to understand the potential complications following neurosurgical procedures to provide optimal care for their patients. Recognizing the most concerning findings postoperatively allows for timely interventions and prevents further complications. Understanding the implications of each finding helps nurses prioritize care and collaborate effectively with the healthcare team to ensure positive patient outcomes.
Question 5 of 5
Laboratory findings that the nurse would expect to be present in the patient with RA include
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer to the NCLEX question on laboratory findings in a patient with RA is option D) anti-citrullinated protein antibody (ACPA). ACPA is a specific marker for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and its presence in the blood indicates an autoimmune response that is characteristic of RA. This antibody is highly specific for RA and is used in the diagnosis of the disease. Option A) polycythemia is incorrect because it is characterized by an increase in red blood cell count, which is not typically associated with RA. Option B) increased immunoglobulin G (IgG) is also incorrect as elevated IgG levels are not specific to RA and can be seen in a variety of conditions. Option C) decreased white blood cell (WBC) count is not a typical finding in RA as RA is not primarily a disease of decreased WBCs. Educationally, understanding the specific laboratory findings associated with RA is crucial for nurses caring for patients with this condition. Being able to interpret these findings can aid in early diagnosis and appropriate management of RA. Nurses need to be familiar with the diagnostic markers for RA to provide comprehensive care and support to patients with autoimmune diseases.