Which syndrome of incomplete spinal cord lesion is described as cord damage common in the cervical region resulting in greater weakness in upper extremities than lower?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A) Central cord syndrome. Central cord syndrome is characterized by damage to the central part of the spinal cord, commonly seen in cervical spinal injuries. This type of injury typically results in greater weakness in the upper extremities compared to the lower extremities due to the specific anatomy of the spinal cord segments that control these areas. Option B) Anterior cord syndrome involves damage to the front portion of the spinal cord, leading to motor and sensory deficits below the level of the injury, but it does not typically present with the distinct pattern of greater weakness in the upper extremities seen in central cord syndrome. Option C) Posterior cord syndrome affects the back portion of the spinal cord and primarily results in proprioception and vibratory sense deficits, rather than the specific weakness pattern described in the question. Option D) Cauda equina and conus medullaris syndromes involve injuries to the nerve roots below the level of the spinal cord, leading to symptoms such as lower extremity weakness and bladder dysfunction, which contrasts with the upper extremity weakness characteristic of central cord syndrome. Educationally, understanding the specific characteristics of each spinal cord syndrome is crucial for healthcare professionals, especially those working in neurology or rehabilitation settings. Recognizing the unique clinical presentations of these syndromes can aid in accurate diagnosis, treatment planning, and prognosis estimation for patients with spinal cord injuries.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A) Corticosteroids. When a patient reports taking corticosteroids, the nurse should be alert to potential bone and muscle impairment. Corticosteroids can cause osteoporosis, leading to bone weakening and increased risk of fractures. They can also cause muscle weakness and atrophy, impacting overall muscle function. Option B) Oral hypoglycemic agents are used to lower blood sugar levels in diabetic patients and do not directly impact bone or muscle function. Option C) Potassium-depleting diuretics primarily affect electrolyte balance, particularly potassium levels, but do not have a direct effect on bone or muscle function impairment. Option D) Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used for pain relief and reducing inflammation but do not specifically cause bone or muscle impairment as seen with corticosteroids. In an educational context, it is crucial for nurses to understand the potential side effects of medications to provide safe and effective care to patients. Recognizing the implications of different drug classes on various body systems allows nurses to anticipate complications, provide appropriate interventions, and educate patients on potential risks associated with their medications.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is C) Pathologic fracture. A pathologic fracture occurs when a bone breaks under normal stress or with minimal trauma due to underlying conditions like osteoporosis. It is crucial for the nurse to document this accurately to provide a comprehensive picture of the patient's health status. Option A) Open fracture refers to a fracture where the bone breaks through the skin, which is not the case in this situation. Option B) Oblique fracture describes a break at an angle across the bone, which is not specific to the context of a fracture in a patient with osteoporosis. Option D) Greenstick fracture is a type of incomplete fracture seen in children, typically from bending forces, not related to osteoporosis-induced fractures in adults. Educationally, understanding the types of fractures and their characteristics is essential for healthcare professionals, especially nurses, to accurately assess, document, and provide appropriate care for patients with fractures. Connecting the type of fracture to the underlying condition aids in proper diagnosis and management, highlighting the significance of precise documentation in healthcare settings.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the context of a patient with unilateral neglect due to sensory-perceptual deficits, the correct nursing intervention during rehabilitation is option C) Teach the patient to care consciously for the affected side. This intervention is crucial as it aims to promote awareness and engagement of the neglected side, fostering neuroplasticity and functional recovery. By actively involving the patient in caring for the affected side, the brain is stimulated to rewire and improve sensorimotor functions. Option A) Avoid positioning the patient on the affected side is incorrect as it does not address the core issue of neglect and may perpetuate the lack of attention to that side. Option B) Place all objects for care on the patient's unaffected side enables avoidance rather than active involvement of the neglected side, hindering rehabilitation progress. Option D) Protect the affected side from injury with pillows and supports, while important for safety, does not directly target the underlying neglect issue. It is essential to prioritize interventions that promote patient participation and reintegration of the neglected side into daily activities to achieve optimal outcomes in neurological rehabilitation. Educationally, understanding the rationale behind choosing active patient engagement over passive strategies is vital for nurses and healthcare professionals working with patients with neurological deficits. By empowering patients to participate in their care, we not only enhance their rehabilitation outcomes but also promote independence and self-efficacy, which are fundamental goals in neurological nursing practice.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer to the question regarding what will happen to a patient with multiple sclerosis (MS) is option A: "You will have either periods of attacks and remissions or progression of nerve damage over time." This option is correct because multiple sclerosis is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system. Patients with MS can experience relapses or attacks where new symptoms appear or existing ones worsen, followed by periods of remission where symptoms improve partially or completely. Over time, if the disease progresses, there can be cumulative nerve damage leading to various neurological deficits. Option B: "You need to plan for a continuous loss of movement," is incorrect because not all patients with MS experience continuous loss of movement. The disease course varies among individuals, and some may have periods of stability or even improvement in symptoms. Option C: "sensory functions," and option D: "and mental capabilities," are also incorrect because while MS can affect sensory functions and cognitive abilities in some patients, these are not universal features of the disease. Symptoms of MS can vary widely and may include issues with mobility, vision, coordination, and bladder control, among others. In an educational context, it is important for students to understand the variable nature of multiple sclerosis and how it can manifest differently in different individuals. By knowing that MS can involve periods of relapse and remission or a progressive course, healthcare professionals can provide appropriate care and support tailored to each patient's unique needs. Educating students on the complexities of MS helps prepare them to deliver comprehensive and individualized care to patients with this condition.