ATI RN
PN Vital Signs Assessment Questions
Question 1 of 5
Where is the lesion if a patient presents with isolated infraspinatus weakness and atrophy?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: The spinoglenoid notch of the scapula. Isolated infraspinatus weakness and atrophy is indicative of a lesion at the spinoglenoid notch, which is where the suprascapular nerve passes to innervate the infraspinatus muscle. The suprascapular notch (A) is more related to the supraspinatus muscle. C5 nerve root (B) involvement would typically present with a wider range of muscle weakness. The upper trunk of the brachial plexus (D) would lead to a more extensive pattern of muscle involvement.
Question 2 of 5
The technique that uses ultrasound to deliver medications through the skin is which of the following?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Phonophoresis. Phonophoresis is a technique that uses ultrasound waves to enhance the delivery of medications through the skin. Ultrasound waves help to increase the permeability of the skin, allowing the medications to penetrate deeper into the tissues. This method is commonly used in physical therapy to treat various musculoskeletal conditions. Summary of other choices: B: Diathermy is a therapeutic technique that uses high-frequency electromagnetic currents for deep heating of tissues. C: Iontophoresis is a technique that uses electrical currents to drive medications into the skin. D: None of the above is incorrect as phonophoresis is the correct technique described in the question.
Question 3 of 5
What diagnostic test is the 'gold standard' for evaluation of the rotator cuff?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: MRI. MRI is the 'gold standard' for evaluating the rotator cuff because it provides detailed images of soft tissues like tendons and muscles. It offers superior resolution compared to other imaging modalities, allowing for accurate detection of rotator cuff tears and other pathologies. Plain x-ray (A) is not ideal for soft tissue evaluation. Physical exam (B) can provide valuable information but may not definitively diagnose rotator cuff issues. Ultrasound (D) is useful but may not offer the same level of detail and accuracy as MRI for evaluating the rotator cuff.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse is preparing to assess a patient's abdomen by palpation. How should the nurse proceed?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because it follows the proper sequence for abdominal palpation. Light palpation should always precede deep palpation to detect surface characteristics and allow the patient to get accustomed to being touched. This approach helps the nurse gather initial information and establish rapport with the patient. Palpating reportedly tender areas should not be avoided (Choice A) as it is important to assess all areas for potential issues. Quickly palpating a tender area (Choice B) may cause unnecessary discomfort to the patient. Beginning with deep palpation (Choice C) before light palpation is not recommended as it may cause discomfort and prevent the nurse from effectively assessing the abdomen.
Question 5 of 5
Monique is a 33-year-old administrative assistant who has had intermittent lower abdominal pain approximately one week a month for the past year. It is not related to her menses. She notes relief with defecation, and a change in form and frequency of her bowel movements with these episodes. Which of the following is most likely?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Monique's symptoms of lower abdominal pain relieved by defecation, and changes in bowel movements (form and frequency) without relation to menses are classic features of IBS. IBS is a functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by abdominal pain and altered bowel habits. Colon cancer (A) typically presents with more serious symptoms like rectal bleeding and unexplained weight loss. Cholecystitis (B) involves inflammation of the gallbladder, presenting with right upper quadrant pain. Inflammatory bowel disease (C) includes conditions like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, which present with symptoms such as bloody diarrhea and weight loss.