NCLEX-PN
Musculoskeletal NCLEX Practice Questions Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
The client is complaining of joint stiffness, especially in the morning. Which diagnostic tests should the nurse expect the health-care provider to order to R/O osteoarthritis?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: X-rays reveal OA characteristic joint space narrowing and osteophytes. MRI is excessive, synovial fluid studies are not routine, and ESR is for inflammatory conditions, not OA.
Question 2 of 5
Which is the best method to assess circulation in the casted extremity?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Depressing the nail beds to assess capillary refill (color return within 2-3 seconds) is the most reliable method to evaluate circulation in a casted extremity, indicating adequate blood flow. Wiggling fingers assesses motor function, not circulation directly, and the other options are less specific.
Question 3 of 5
The client diagnosed with OA is a resident in a long-term care facility. The resident is refusing to bathe because she is hurting. Which instruction should the nurse give the unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP)?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Encouraging the client to shower promotes mobility, which reduces OA stiffness, while addressing pain. Bed rest worsens stiffness, bed baths enable immobility, and family notification is unnecessary.
Question 4 of 5
The female client diagnosed with osteoporosis tells the nurse she is going to perform swim aerobics for 30 minutes every day. Which response is most appropriate by the nurse?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Walking, a weight-bearing exercise, better promotes bone density than swimming for osteoporosis. Daily swimming is less effective, sedentary activities worsen osteoporosis, and praise ignores efficacy.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse is working on an orthopedic floor. Which client should the nurse assess first after the change-of-shift report?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Confusion post-TKR may indicate neurological or metabolic complications, requiring urgent assessment. Fractures, THR, and CPM use are stable.