ATI RN
Neurological Vital Signs Assessment Questions
Question 1 of 5
Which statement is true regarding the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL)?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Rationale for Choice A: The ACL prevents backward sliding of the femur by attaching from the back of the femur to the front of the tibia. When the knee is flexed, it prevents the femur from sliding backward on the tibia, providing stability. Summary of other choices: B: Incorrect, as the ACL primarily limits anterior translation of the tibia on the femur, not external rotation. C: Incorrect, as the ACL tightens with extension and loosens in flexion to provide stability. D: Incorrect, as ACL deficiency can lead to instability and increased pressures on the posterior menisci, not the anterior menisci.
Question 2 of 5
Which of the following complications can occur in lower extremity burns?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: All of the above. Lower extremity burns can lead to Achilles tendon shortening due to scar tissue formation, metatarsophalangeal joint hyperextension from contractures, and foot drop as a result of nerve damage or muscle weakness. Each complication is a common consequence of severe lower extremity burns. The other choices (A, B, C) are incorrect because they represent individual complications that can arise from lower extremity burns, but in reality, it is common for patients to experience a combination of these issues rather than just one isolated complication.
Question 3 of 5
Which of the following correctly describes phonophoresis?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because phonophoresis involves using ultrasound to drive topical medications into tissue. Ultrasound waves help enhance the penetration of medications through the skin and into deeper tissues. This method is effective for localized pain management and inflammation. Choice B is incorrect because using electric current to drive medications into tissue is known as iontophoresis, not phonophoresis. Choice C is incorrect as massage alone cannot drive topical medications into tissue. Choice D is incorrect because using cold spray to numb a painful area is a form of cryotherapy, not phonophoresis. In summary, phonophoresis involves ultrasound to enhance medication penetration, differing from iontophoresis, massage, and cryotherapy.
Question 4 of 5
Which of the following is a contraindication for the use of contrast baths?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D - Buerger's disease. Contrast baths involve alternating hot and cold water immersion, which can worsen symptoms in patients with Buerger's disease due to compromised blood flow. For the other options, A: Rheumatoid arthritis and C: Muscular strain are not contraindications, as contrast baths can help with inflammation and improve circulation. B: Complex regional pain syndrome may benefit from contrast baths to help with pain management.
Question 5 of 5
Which of these techniques uses the sense of touch to assess texture, temperature, moisture, and swelling when the nurse is assessing a patient?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Palpation. Palpation is a technique that involves using the sense of touch to assess various aspects such as texture, temperature, moisture, and swelling during a patient assessment. This technique allows the nurse to feel for abnormalities, tenderness, or changes in the patient's body. It is a crucial part of a physical examination as it provides valuable information about the patient's condition. Explanation of why the other choices are incorrect: B: Inspection involves visual examination and does not involve the sense of touch. C: Percussion is a technique that involves tapping the body to assess underlying structures and is not related to using the sense of touch. D: Auscultation involves listening to sounds within the body using a stethoscope and does not involve the sense of touch.