ATI RN
Vital Signs Assessment Nursing Questions
Question 1 of 5
Which position should be avoided after total hip arthroplasty using an anterior approach?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Bridging. After total hip arthroplasty using an anterior approach, bridging should be avoided to prevent excessive stress on the hip joint. Bridging involves lifting the pelvis off the ground while lying on the back, which can strain the hip joint and potentially lead to dislocation. Adduction crossing midline can also stress the hip joint. Sitting on a regular toilet seat and crossing legs are acceptable postures as long as proper precautions are taken to avoid excessive hip flexion or internal rotation.
Question 2 of 5
The nerve that is injured during a mastectomy, sometimes leading to postmastectomy pain syndrome, is which of the following?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Intercostobrachial nerve. During a mastectomy, the intercostobrachial nerve is often damaged, leading to postmastectomy pain syndrome. This nerve runs along the chest and upper arm, making it susceptible to injury during the surgery. The suprascapular nerve (B) innervates the shoulder joint, the musculocutaneous nerve (C) innervates the muscles of the anterior arm, and the axillary nerve (D) innervates the deltoid and teres minor muscles, none of which are directly affected during a mastectomy. Thus, these choices are incorrect.
Question 3 of 5
Which of the following is an indication for microwave diathermy?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In the context of vital signs assessment in nursing, understanding the appropriate use of modalities like microwave diathermy is crucial for providing safe and effective care to patients. The correct answer is D) All of the above. Microwave diathermy is indicated for increasing heat to muscles, joints, and resolving hematomas. This modality uses electromagnetic waves to generate heat deep within tissues, promoting vasodilation, increasing blood flow, and aiding in pain relief and tissue healing. Option A) Increase heat to muscles is correct because microwave diathermy can penetrate deep into muscle tissue, providing therapeutic heat that can help relax muscles, reduce pain, and improve circulation. Option B) Resolution of hematomas is correct because the heat generated by microwave diathermy can accelerate the breakdown of blood clots and promote reabsorption of the hematoma, aiding in faster resolution. Option C) Increase heat to joints is correct because microwave diathermy can be used to deliver heat to joints, helping to reduce pain, stiffness, and inflammation associated with conditions like arthritis. It is important for nurses to be knowledgeable about the indications, contraindications, and appropriate use of modalities like microwave diathermy to ensure patient safety and optimal outcomes. By understanding the physiological effects and therapeutic benefits of this modality, nurses can make informed decisions in providing holistic care to patients with musculoskeletal conditions.
Question 4 of 5
What physical exam finding will be observed in 'Saturday night palsy'?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Marked wrist and finger drop. In Saturday night palsy, there is compression of the radial nerve, leading to weakness of the wrist and finger extensors. This results in the characteristic presentation of wrist and finger drop. Choice B is incorrect as atrophy of the APB is seen in carpal tunnel syndrome. Choice C is incorrect as weak elbow extension is not a typical finding in Saturday night palsy. Choice D is incorrect as painless weakness and atrophy of hand intrinsic muscles are more indicative of ulnar nerve compression.
Question 5 of 5
Diplopia (double vision), which is present with one eye covered, can be caused by which of the following problems?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because diplopia with one eye covered suggests a problem with the affected eye itself, such as an irregularity in the cornea or lens causing refractive errors. Weakness of CN III (A) would cause eye movement issues, not diplopia with one eye covered. Weakness of CN IV (B) would result in vertical diplopia, not diplopia with one eye covered. A lesion of the brainstem (C) can lead to various oculomotor issues but wouldn't specifically cause diplopia with one eye covered.