ATI RN
Questions About the Muscular System Questions
Question 1 of 5
Which of the following imaging studies can be used most safely during pregnancy?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Ultrasounds use sound waves, safe for pregnancy, avoiding radiation risks to the fetus, commonly monitoring development. CT and X-rays emit ionizing radiation, harmful. PET uses radioactive tracers, also risky. Ultrasound's non-invasive safety, per medical practice, makes 'c' correct.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse adds interventions for range-of-motion (ROM) and isometric exercises for the new patient with a stroke because the nurse is aware that contracture formation begins as early as day(s) of immobilization.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Contractures begin forming when muscles and joints remain immobile for an extended period, with evidence suggesting this process can start within a few days. In stroke patients, paralysis or weakness often leads to immobility, and research indicates that muscle shortening and joint stiffness can emerge as early as 3 days without movement. One day is too short for significant changes, as tissues need sustained inactivity to adapt pathologically. Two days may show minor stiffness, but 3 days aligns with clinical observations of early contracture onset. Ten days is far too long, as by then contractures would likely be well-established, not just beginning. ROM and isometric exercises are thus introduced early to maintain flexibility and muscle tone, preventing this rapid complication in stroke recovery.
Question 3 of 5
When a 90-year-old patient says, My old bones are just about done in, the nurse reminds him that his bones are being constantly renewed through the action of:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Bone renewal is an ongoing process called remodeling, driven by osteoblasts, cells that build new bone by depositing mineralized matrix. This counters the patient's notion of bones wearing out, as osteoblasts work with osteoclasts (which break down bone) to maintain skeletal health, even in old age. Stem cells contribute broadly to tissue repair but aren't specific to bone renewal. Free calcium ions are raw materials, not active agents. Phosphorus and vitamin D support mineralization, but osteoblasts execute the process. Highlighting osteoblasts reassures the patient that regeneration persists, emphasizing the dynamic nature of bone tissue over passive nutrient roles.
Question 4 of 5
A patient with osteoporosis calls the nurse in the doctor s office to report that she has forgotten to take her weekly bisphosphonate (alendronate [Fosamax]) for 2 days past the weekly time. The nurse should advise the patient to:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Bisphosphonates like alendronate are taken weekly to slow bone loss in osteoporosis, with strict timing to maximize absorption and minimize side effects. Missing it by 2 days means taking it late could overlap with the next dose, risking irritation or reduced efficacy. Taking it now is tempting but disrupts the schedule. Two doses 3 days apart or doubling up now with a snack (which impairs absorption) violate dosing guidelines, potentially causing esophageal harm. Skipping this week and resuming next week maintains the regimen's consistency and safety, as the drug's long-acting nature means one missed dose won't drastically affect treatment, making it the best advice for adherence and health.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse is performing an assessment on the patient who is in bilateral Buck s traction. Which finding indicates the need to reposition the patient?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Buck's traction uses weights and pulleys to align a leg fracture, requiring proper positioning to avoid complications. Heels not touching the mattress suggest the legs are elevated or misaligned, risking pressure on the heels or traction ineffectiveness, necessitating repositioning. Rewrapping bandages addresses maintenance, not position. Feet against the footboard could indicate too much pull, but it's less urgent if traction remains functional. Free-hanging weights are correct for traction. Heels off the bed signal a positional flaw, potentially causing skin breakdown or misalignment, making it the priority for adjustment to ensure therapeutic effect.