MedSurg Exam 7 practice questions

The nurse is providing care for a client who has had a below-the-knee amputation. The nurse enters the client's room and finds the client resting in bed with the residual limb supported on a pillow. What is the nurse's most appropriate action? A. Inform the surgeon of this finding. B. Explain the risks of flexion contracture to the client. C. Transfer the client to a sitting position. D. Encourage the client to perform active ROM exercises with the residual limb.

Explain the risks of flexion contracture to the client.

Diagnostic tests show that a client's bone density has decreased over the past several years. The client asks the nurse which factors contribute to bone density decreasing. Which response by the nurse would be best? A. "For many people, a lack of proper nutrition can cause a loss of bone density." B. "Progressive loss of bone density is mostly related to your genes." C. "Stress is known to have many unhealthy effects, including reduced bone density." D. "Bone density decreases with age, but scientists are not exactly sure why this is the case."

"For many people, a lack of proper nutrition can cause a loss of bone density."

A nurse is caring for a client who has had a total hip replacement. The nurse is reviewing health education prior to discharge. Which of the client's statements would indicate to the nurse that the client requires further teaching? A. "I'll need to keep several pillows between my legs at night." B. "I need to remember not to cross my legs. It's such a habit." C. "The occupational therapist is showing me how to use a 'sock puller' to help me get dressed." D. "I will need my husband to assist me in getting off the low toilet seat at home."

"I will need my husband to assist me in getting off the low toilet seat at home."

A client with a right tibial fracture is being discharged home after having a cast applied. What instruction should the nurse provide in relationship to the client's cast care? A. "Cover the cast with a blanket until the cast dries." B. "Keep your right leg elevated above heart level." C. "Use a clean object to scratch itches inside the cast." D. "A foul smell from the cast is normal after the first few days."

"Keep your right leg elevated above heart level."

A client was brought to the emergency department after a fall. The client is taken to the operating room to receive a right hip prosthesis. In the immediate postoperative period, what health education should the nurse emphasize? A. "Make sure you don't bring your knees close together." B. "Try to lie as still as possible for the first few days." C. "Try to avoid bending your knees until next week." D. "Keep your legs higher than your chest whenever you can."

"Make sure you don't bring your knees close together."

A client is undergoing diagnostic testing to determine the etiology of recent joint pain. The client asks the nurse about the difference between osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). What is the best response by the nurse? A. "OA is considered a noninflammatory joint disease. RA is characterized by inflamed, swollen joints." B. "OA and RA are very similar. OA affects the smaller joints such as the fingers, and RA affects the larger, weight-bearing joints like the knees." C. "OA originates with an infection. RA is a result of your body's cells attacking one another." D. "OA is associated with impaired immune function; RA is a consequence of physical damage."

"OA is considered a noninflammatory joint disease. RA is characterized by inflamed, swollen joints."

The nurse is teaching the client on bed rest to perform quadriceps setting exercises. Which instruction should the nurse give the client? A. "Push the knees into the mattress." B. "Lie prone in bed." C. "Contract the buttock muscles." D. "Bend the knees."

"Push the knees into the mattress."

A nurse is caring for a client whose cancer metastasis has resulted in bone pain. What should the nurse expect the client to describe? A. A dull, deep ache that is "boring" in nature B. Soreness or aching that may include cramping C. Sharp, piercing pain that is relieved by immobilization D. Spastic or sharp pain that radiates

A dull, deep ache that is "boring" in nature

A nurse's assessment of a client's knee reveals edema, tenderness, muscle spasms, and ecchymosis. The client states that 2 days ago the client ran in a long-distance race and now it "really hurts to stand up." The nurse should plan care based on the belief that the client has experienced what injury? A. A first-degree strain B. A second-degree strain C. A first-degree sprain D. A second-degree sprain

A second-degree strain

The surgical nurse is admitting a client from postanesthetic recovery following the client's below-the-knee amputation. The nurse recognizes the client's high risk for postoperative hemorrhage and should keep what equipment at the bedside? A. A tourniquet B. A syringe preloaded with vitamin K C. A unit of packed red blood cells, placed on ice D. A dose of protamine sulfate

A tourniquet

A nurse is assessing a client who is experiencing peripheral neurovascular dysfunction. Which assessment findings are most consistent with this diagnosis? A. Hot skin and a capillary refill of 1 to 2 seconds B. Absence of feeling, capillary refill of 4 to 5 seconds, and cool skin C. Pain, diaphoresis, and erythema D. Jaundiced skin, weakness, and capillary refill of 3 seconds

Absence of feeling, capillary refill of 4 to 5 seconds, and cool skin

A nurse is performing a nursing assessment of a client suspected of having a musculoskeletal disorder. Which assessment should the nurse prioritize for a client who has a musculoskeletal disorder? A. Range of motion B. Activities of daily living C. Gait D. Strength

Activities of daily living

The emergency department nurse is caring for an adult client who was in a motor vehicle accident. Radiography reveals an ulnar fracture. Which type of pain is the nurse addressing with this client? A. Chronic B. Acute C. Intermittent D. Osteopenic

Acute

A public health nurse is organizing a campaign that will address the leading cause of musculoskeletal-related disability. The nurse should focus on what health problem? A. Osteoporosis B. Arthritis C. Hip fractures D. Lower back pain

Arthritis

A client has been experiencing progressive increases in knee pain and diagnostic imaging reveals a worsening effusion in the synovial capsule. The nurse should anticipate what diagnostic procedure? A. Arthrography B. Knee biopsy C. Arthrocentesis D. Electromyography

Arthrocentesis

A client has recently been admitted to the orthopedic unit following total hip arthroplasty. The nurse assesses that the indwelling urinary catheter was removed one hour ago in the post-anesthesia care unit and that the client has not yet voided. Which action should the nurse take? A. Inform the primary provider promptly. B. Ask if the client needs to void. C. Perform intermittent catheterization. D. Obtain an order to reinsert the indwelling urinary catheter.

Ask if the client needs to void.

A client is receiving postoperative morphine through a client-controlled analgesia (PCA) pump and the client's prescriptions specify an initial bolus dose. What is the nurse's priority assessment? A. Assessment for decreased level of consciousness (LOC) B. Assessment for respiratory depression C. Assessment for fluid overload D. Assessment for paradoxical increase in pain

Assessment for respiratory depression

An older adult client has fallen in the home and is brought to the emergency department by ambulance with a suspected fractured hip. X-rays confirm a fracture of the left femoral neck. When planning assessments during the client's presurgical care, the nurse should be aware of the client's heightened risk of what complication? A. Osteomyelitis B. Avascular necrosis C. Phantom pain D. Septicemia

Avascular necrosis

A nurse is caring for an adult client diagnosed with a back strain. What health education should the nurse provide to this client? A. Avoid lifting more than one-third of body weight without assistance. B. Focus on using back muscles efficiently when lifting heavy objects. C. Lift objects while holding the object a safe distance from the body. D. Tighten the abdominal muscles and lock the knees when lifting an object.

Avoid lifting more than one-third of body weight without assistance.

Two clients have recently returned to the postsurgical unit after knee arthroplasty. One client is reporting pain of 8 to 9 on a 0-to-10 pain scale, whereas the other client is reporting a pain level of 3 to 4 on the same pain scale. What is the nurse's most plausible rationale for understanding the clients' different perceptions of pain? A. Awareness and emotions affect the perception of pain. B. One of the clients is exaggerating the sense of pain. C. The clients are likely experiencing a variance in vasoconstriction. D. One of the clients may be experiencing opioid tolerance.

Awareness and emotions affect the perception of pain.

A client tells the nurse that they haves pain and numbness in the thumb, first finger, and second finger of the right hand. The nurse discovers that the client is employed as an auto mechanic, and that the pain is increased while working. This may indicate that the client has what health problem? A. Carpel tunnel syndrome B. Tendonitis C. Impingement syndrome D. Dupuytren contracture

Carpel tunnel syndrome

Radiographs of a client's upper arm shows three fragments of the humeral bone. This diagnostic result suggests what type of fracture? A. Open B. Comminuted C. Intra-articular D. Greenstick

Comminuted

The nurse is performing an assessment of a client's musculoskeletal system and is appraising the client's bone integrity. Which action should the nurse perform during this phase of assessment? A. Compare parts of the body symmetrically. B. Assess extremities when in motion rather than at rest. C. Percuss as many joints as are accessible. D. Administer analgesia 30 to 60 minutes before assessment.

Compare parts of the body symmetrically.

A nurse is caring for a client who is being assessed following reports of severe and persistent low back pain. The client is scheduled for diagnostic testing in the morning. Which of the following are appropriate diagnostic tests for assessing low back pain? Select all that apply. A. Computed tomography (CT) B. Angiography C. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) D. Ultrasound E. X-ray

Computed tomography (CT) Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) Ultrasound X-ray

A client has had a cast placed for the treatment of a humeral fracture. The nurse's most recent assessment shows signs and symptoms of compartment syndrome. What is the nurse's most appropriate action? A. Arrange for a STAT assessment of the client's serum calcium levels. B. Perform active range of motion exercises. C. Assess the client's joint function symmetrically. D. Contact the primary provider immediately.

Contact the primary provider immediately.

A nurse is performing a musculoskeletal assessment of a client with arthritis. During passive range-of-motion exercises, the nurse hears an audible grating sound. The nurse should document the presence of what assessment finding? A. Fasciculations B. Clonus C. Effusion D. Crepitus

Crepitus

A nurse is reviewing the care of a client who has a long history of lower back pain that has not responded to conservative treatment measures. The nurse should anticipate the administration of what drug? A. Calcitonin B. Prednisone C. Aspirin D. Cyclobenzaprine

Cyclobenzaprine

Allopurinol has been prescribed for a client receiving treatment for gout. The nurse caring for this client knows to assess the client for bone marrow suppression, which may be manifested by what diagnostic finding? A. Hyperuricemia B. Increased erythrocyte sedimentation rate C. Elevated serum creatinine D. Decreased platelets

Decreased platelets

A client has returned to the unit after undergoing limb-sparing surgery to remove a metastatic bone tumor. The nurse providing postoperative care in the days following surgery assesses for what complication from surgery? A. Deficient fluid volume B. Delayed wound healing C. Hypocalcemia D. Pathologic fractures

Delayed wound healing

A nurse is caring for a client who is 12 hours' postoperative following foot surgery. The nurse assesses the presence of edema in the foot. What nursing measure should the nurse implement to control the edema? A. Elevate the foot on several pillows. B. Apply warm compresses intermittently to the surgical area. C. Administer a loop diuretic as prescribed. D. Increase circulation through frequent ambulation.

Elevate the foot on several pillows.

A client with a total hip replacement has developed decreased breath sounds What is the nurse's best action? A. Place the client on bed rest. B. Request an antitussive medication from the health care provider. C. Encourage use of the incentive spirometer. D. Assess for signs and symptoms of systemic infection.

Encourage use of the incentive spirometer.

A nurse is caring for a client who had a right below-the-knee amputation (BKA). The nurse recognizes the importance of implementing measures that focus on preventing flexion contracture of the hip and maintaining proper positioning. What nursing action will best achieve these goals? A. Encouraging the client to turn from side to side and to assume a prone position B. Initiating ROM exercises of the hip and knee 10 to 12 weeks after the amputation C. Minimizing movement of the flexor muscles of the hip D. Encouraging the client to sit in a chair for at least 8 hours a day

Encouraging the client to turn from side to side and to assume a prone position

A client with a simple arm fracture is receiving discharge education from the nurse. What would the nurse instruct the client to do? A. Elevate the affected extremity to shoulder level when at rest. B. Engage in exercises that strengthen the unaffected muscles. C. Apply topical anesthetics to accessible skin surfaces as needed. D. Avoid using analgesics so that further damage is not masked.

Engage in exercises that strengthen the unaffected muscles.

A nurse is taking a health history on a client with musculoskeletal dysfunction. What should the nurse prioritize during this phase of the assessment? A. Evaluating the effects of the musculoskeletal disorder on the client's function B. Evaluating the client's adherence to the existing treatment regimen C. Evaluating the presence of genetic risk factors for further musculoskeletal disorders D. Evaluating the client's active and passive range of motion

Evaluating the effects of the musculoskeletal disorder on the client's function

A nurse is caring for a client who has just had an arthroscopy as an outpatient and is getting ready to go home. The nurse should teach the client to monitor closely for what postprocedure complication? A. Fever B. Crepitus C. Fasciculations D. Synovial fluid leakage

Fever

A client has sustained traumatic injuries that involve several bone fractures. A fracture of what type of bone may interfere with the protection of the client's vital organs? A. Long bones B. Short bones C. Flat bones D. Irregular bones

Flat bones

A nurse is taking a health history on a new client who has been experiencing unexplained paresthesia. What question should guide the nurse's assessment of the client's altered sensations? A. How does the strength in the affected extremity compare to the strength in the unaffected extremity? B. Does the color in the affected extremity match the color in the unaffected extremity? C. How does the feeling in the affected extremity compare with the feeling in the unaffected extremity? D. Does the client have a family history of paresthesia or other forms of altered sensation?

How does the feeling in the affected extremity compare with the feeling in the unaffected extremity?

A clinic nurse is caring for a client with suspected gout. While describing the pathophysiology of gout to the client, what should the nurse explain? A. Autoimmune processes in the joints B. Chronic metabolic acidosis C. Increased uric acid levels D. Unstable serum calcium levels

Increased uric acid levels

The nursing care plan for a client in traction specifies regular assessments for venous thromboembolism (VTE). When assessing a client's lower limbs, what sign or symptom is suggestive of deep vein thrombosis (DVT)? A. Increased warmth of the calf B. Decreased circumference of the calf C. Loss of sensation to the calf D. Pale-appearing calf

Increased warmth of the calf

A client has been experiencing an unexplained decline in knee function and has consequently been scheduled for arthrography. The nurse should teach the client about what process? A. Injection of a contrast agent into the knee joint prior to ROM exercises B. Aspiration of synovial fluid for serologic testing C. Injection of corticosteroids into the client's knee joint to facilitate ROM D. Replacement of the client's synovial fluid with a synthetic substitute

Injection of a contrast agent into the knee joint prior to ROM exercises

The nurse's comprehensive assessment of an older adult involves the assessment of the client's gait. How should the nurse best perform this assessment? A. Instruct the client to walk heel-to-toe for 15 to 20 steps. B. Instruct the client to walk in a straight line while not looking at the floor. C. Instruct the client to walk away from the nurse for a short distance and then toward the nurse. D. Instruct the client to balance on one foot for as long as possible and then walk in a circle around the room.

Instruct the client to walk away from the nurse for a short distance and then toward the nurse.

The nurse educator on an orthopedic trauma unit is reviewing the safe and effective use of traction with some recent nursing graduates. What principle should the educator promote? A. Knots in the rope should not be resting against pulleys. B. Weights should rest against the bed rails. C. The end of the limb in traction should be braced by the footboard of the bed. D. Skeletal traction may be removed for brief periods to facilitate the client's independence.

Knots in the rope should not be resting against pulleys.

A client has come to the clinic for a regular check-up. The nurse's initial inspection reveals an increased thoracic curvature of the client's spine. The nurse should document the presence of which condition? A. Scoliosis B. Epiphyses C. Lordosis D. Kyphosis

Kyphosis

A nurse is educating a client with gout about lifestyle modifications that can help control the signs and symptoms of the disease. What recommendation should the nurse make? A. Ensuring adequate rest B. Limiting exposure to sunlight C. Limiting intake of alcohol D. Smoking cessation

Limiting intake of alcohol

The results of a nurse's musculoskeletal examination show an increase in the lumbar curvature of the spine. The nurse should recognize the presence of what health problem? A. Osteoporosis B. Kyphosis C. Lordosis D. Scoliosis

Lordosis

A nurse is caring for a client who has suffered an unstable thoracolumbar fracture. What goal should the nurse prioritize during nursing care? A. Preventing skin breakdown B. Maintaining spinal alignment C. Maximizing function D. Preventing increased intracranial pressure

Maintaining spinal alignment

The nurse, who is a member of the palliative care team, is assessing a client. The client reports saving client-controlled analgesics (PCA) until the pain is intense because pain control has been inadequate. What client education should the nurse give this client? A. Medication should be taken when pain levels are low so the pain is easier to reduce. B. Pain medication can be increased when the pain becomes intense. C. It is difficult to control chronic pain, so this is an inevitable part of the disease process. D. The client will likely benefit more from distraction than pharmacologic interventions.

Medication should be taken when pain levels are low so the pain is easier to reduce.

A client with diabetes is attending a class on the prevention of associated diseases. What action should the nurse teach the client to reduce the risk of osteomyelitis? A. Increase calcium and vitamin intake. B. Monitor and control blood glucose levels. C. Exercise 3 to 4 times weekly for at least 30 minutes. D. Take corticosteroids as prescribed.

Monitor and control blood glucose levels.

An 80-year-old man in a long-term care facility has a chronic leg ulcer and states that the area has become increasingly painful in recent days. The nurse notes that the site is now swollen and warm to the touch. The client should undergo diagnostic testing for what health problem? A. Osteomyelitis B. Osteoporosis C. Osteomalacia D. Septic arthritis

Osteomyelitis

A client with diabetes has been diagnosed with osteomyelitis. The nurse observes that the client's right foot is pale and mottled, cool to touch, with a capillary refill of greater than 3 seconds. The nurse should suspect what type of osteomyelitis? A. Hematogenous osteomyelitis B. Osteomyelitis with vascular insufficiency C. Contiguous focus osteomyelitis D. Osteomyelitis with muscular deterioration

Osteomyelitis with vascular insufficiency

bone biopsy has just been completed on a client with suspected bone metastases. The nurse should prioritize assessments for which common complication of bone biopsy? A. Dehiscence at the biopsy site B. Pain C. Hematoma formation D. Infection

Pain

A client with a history of arthritis is being discharged to home after right wrist surgery, and the nurse reviews nonopioid pain relief measures. Which intervention(s) would best address the needs of this client? Select all that apply. A. Paraffin bath B. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) C. Rolling walker D. Antiepileptic medications E. Splint or brace

Paraffin bath Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) Splint or brace

What nursing intervention should the nurse prioritize to facilitate healing in a client who has suffered a hip fracture? A. Administer analgesics as required. B. Place a pillow between the client's legs when turning. C. Maintain prone positioning at all times. D. Encourage internal and external rotation of the affected leg.

Place a pillow between the client's legs when turning.

A client is involved in a motorcycle accident and injures an arm. The health care provider diagnoses the man with an intra-articular fracture and splints the injury. The nurse implements the teaching plan developed for this client. What sequela of intra-articular fractures should the nurse describe regarding this client? A. Posttraumatic arthritis B. Fat embolism syndrome (FES) C. Osteomyelitis D. Compartment syndrome

Posttraumatic arthritis

A nurse is caring for a client who has a leg cast. The nurse observes the client using a pencil to scratch the skin under the edge of the cast. How should the nurse respond to this observation? A. Allow the client to gently scratch inside the cast with a pencil. B. Give the client a sterile tongue depressor to use for scratching instead of the pencil. C. Provide a fan to blow cool air into the cast to relieve itching D. Obtain a prescription for a sedative, such as lorazepam, to prevent the client from scratching.

Provide a fan to blow cool air into the cast to relieve itching

The nurse is assessing a client's pain while the client awaits a cholecystectomy. The client is tearful, hesitant to move, and grimacing, but reports feeling pain as a 2 at this time on a 0-to-10 pain scale. How should the nurse best respond to this assessment finding? A. Remind the client that they are indeed experiencing pain. B. Reinforce education about the pain scale number system. C. Reassess the client's pain in 30 minutes. D. Administer an analgesic and then reassess.

Reinforce education about the pain scale number system.

A client has just returned from the postanesthesia care unit (PACU) following left tibia open reduction internal fixation. The client is reporting pain, and the nurse is preparing to administer intravenous hydromorphone. Prior to administering the drug, the nurse should prioritize which assessment? A. Electrolyte levels B. Heart rate C. Respiratory status D. Hydration

Respiratory status

A nurse is writing a care plan for a client admitted to the emergency department (ED) with an open fracture. The nurse will assign priority to what nursing diagnosis for a client with an open fracture of the radius? A. Risk for infection B. Risk for ineffective role performance C. Risk for perioperative positioning injury D. Risk for powerlessness

Risk for infection

A client presents to a clinic reporting a leg ulcer that isn't healing; subsequent diagnostic testing suggests osteomyelitis. The nurse is aware that the most common pathogen to cause osteomyelitis is: A. Staphylococcus aureus. B. Proteus. C. Pseudomonas. D. Escherichia coli.

Staphylococcus aureus.

A nurse is collaborating with the physical therapist to plan the care of a client with osteomyelitis. What principle should guide the management of activity and mobility in this client? A. Stress on the weakened bone must be avoided. B. Increased heart rate enhances perfusion and bone healing. C. Bed rest results in improved outcomes in clients with osteomyelitis. D. Maintenance of baseline ADLs is the primary goal during osteomyelitis treatment.

Stress on the weakened bone must be avoided.

A nurse is caring for a client receiving skeletal traction. Due to the client's severe limits on mobility, the nurse has identified a risk for atelectasis or pneumonia. What intervention should the nurse provide in order to prevent these complications? A. Perform chest physiotherapy once per shift and as needed. B. Teach the client to perform deep breathing and coughing exercises. C. Administer prophylactic antibiotics as prescribed. D. Administer nebulized bronchodilators and corticosteroids as prescribed.

Teach the client to perform deep breathing and coughing exercises.

A nurse is caring for a client who has had a plaster arm cast applied. Immediately after application, the nurse should provide what teaching to the client? A. The cast will feel cool to touch for the first 30 minutes. B. The cast should be wrapped snuggly with a towel until the client gets home. C. The cast should be supported on a board while drying. D. The cast will only have full strength when dry.

The cast will only have full strength when dry.

A nurse is caring for a 78-year-old client with a history of osteoarthritis (OA). When planning the client's care, what goal should the nurse prioritize? A. The client will express satisfaction with the ability to perform ADLs. B. The client will recover from OA within 6 months. C. The client will adhere to the prescribed plan of care. D. The client will deny signs or symptoms of OA.

The client will express satisfaction with the ability to perform ADLs.

A nurse is assessing a client for risk factors known to contribute to osteoarthritis. What assessment finding should the nurse interpret as a risk factor? A. The client has a 30 pack-year smoking history. B. The client's body mass index is 34 (obese). C. The client has primary hypertension. D. The client is 58 years old.

The client's body mass index is 34 (obese).

An orthopedic nurse is caring for a client who is postoperative day 1 following foot surgery. What nursing intervention should be included in the client's subsequent care? A. Dressing changes should not be performed unless there are clear signs of infection. B. The surgical site can be soaked in warm bath water for up to 5 minutes. C. The surgical site should be cleansed with hydrogen peroxide once daily. D. The foot should be elevated in order to prevent edema.

The foot should be elevated in order to prevent edema.

The nurse is creating a nursing care plan for a client with a primary diagnosis of cellulitis and a secondary diagnosis of chronic pain. What common trait of clients who live with chronic pain should be integrated into care planning? A. They are typically more comfortable with underlying pain than clients without chronic pain. B. They often have a lower pain threshold than clients without chronic pain. C. They often have an increased tolerance of pain. D. They can experience acute pain in addition to chronic pain.

They can experience acute pain in addition to chronic pain.

A school nurse is assessing a student who was kicked in the shin during a soccer game. The area of the injury has become swollen and discolored. The triage nurse should organize care for a: A. sprain. B. strain. C. contusion. D. dislocation.

contusion.

A nurse is assessing a child who has a diagnosis of muscular dystrophy. Assessment reveals that the child's muscles have greater-than-normal tone. The nurse should document the presence of: A. tonus B. flaccidity. C. atony. D. spasticity.

spasticity.

The nurse is caring for a client with metastatic bone cancer. The client asks the nurse, "Why am I getting larger doses of this pain medication? It does not seem to be affecting me." What is the nurse's best response? A. "Over time you become more tolerant of the drug." B. "You may have become immune to the effects of the drug." C. "You may be developing a mild addiction to the drug." D. "Your body absorbs less of the drug due to the cancer."

"Over time you become more tolerant of the drug."

A client is admitted to the orthopedic unit with a fractured femur after a motorcycle accident. The client has been placed in traction until the femur can be rodded in surgery. For what early complication(s) should the nurse monitor this client? Select all that apply. A. Systemic infection B. Complex regional pain syndrome C. Deep vein thrombosis D. Compartment syndrome E. Fat embolism

Deep vein thrombosis Compartment syndrome Fat embolism

A nurse is caring for a client who is postoperative day 1 following a total arthroplasty of the right hip. How should the nurse position the client? A. Place a pillow between the legs. B. Turn the client on the surgical side. C. Avoid flexion of the right hip. D. Keep the right hip adducted at all times.

Place a pillow between the legs.

A client who has had an amputation is being cared for by a multidisciplinary rehabilitation team. What is the primary goal of this multidisciplinary team? A. Maximize the efficiency of care. B. Ensure that the client's health care is holistic. C. Facilitate the client's adjustment to a new body image. D. Promote the client's highest possible level of function.

Promote the client's highest possible level of function.

A client's fracture is healing and compact bone is replacing spongy bone around the periphery of the fracture. This process characterizes what phase of the bone healing process? A. Hematoma formation B. Fibrocartilaginous callus formation C. Remodeling D. Bony callus formation

Remodeling

A client with cancer expresses concern to the nurse that increasingly higher doses of opioids are needed to control pain and the client is concerned about opioid overdose and addiction. Which concept of pain management should guide the nurse's response to this client? A. Addiction occurs when higher doses are needed to control pain. B. The need for increasing doses of opioids to control pain is a sign of substance use disorder (SUD). C. Opioid-induced hyperalgesia results in the need for increasing doses of opioids. D. Tolerance develops when higher doses are needed to control pain.

Tolerance develops when higher doses are needed to control pain.

Which of the following clients should the nurse recognize as being at the highest risk for the development of osteomyelitis? A. A middle-aged adult who takes ibuprofen daily for rheumatoid arthritis B. An older adult client with an infected pressure ulcer in the sacral area C. A 17-year-old football player who had orthopedic surgery 6 weeks prior D. An infant diagnosed with jaundice

An older adult client with an infected pressure ulcer in the sacral area

A client has suffered a muscle strain and is reporting pain at 6 on a 10-point scale. The nurse should recommend what action? A. Taking an opioid analgesic as prescribed B. Applying a cold pack to the injured site C. Performing passive ROM exercises D. Applying a heating pad to the affected muscle

Applying a cold pack to the injured site

A nurse in a busy emergency department provides care for many clients who present with contusions, strains, or sprains. What are treatment modalities that are common to all of these musculoskeletal injuries? Select all that apply. A. Massage B. Applying ice C. Compression dressings D. Resting the affected extremity E. Corticosteroids F. Elevating the injured limb

Applying ice Compression dressings Resting the affected extremity Elevating the injured limb

A nurse is discussing conservative management of tendonitis with a client. What is the nurse's best recommendation? A. Weight reduction B. Use of oral opioid analgesics C. Intermittent application of ice and heat D. Passive range of motion exercises

Intermittent application of ice and heat

The nurse is caring for a 71-year-old client who experienced a humeral fracture in a fall. The client is receiving an opioid for pain control. Which principle of pain management for an older adult should the nurse apply? A. Monitor for signs of drug toxicity. B. Assess for an increase in absorption of the drug. C. Monitor for a paradoxical increase in pain. D. Administer higher doses of opioids to relieve pain.

Monitor for signs of drug toxicity.

A client who had a total hip replacement two days ago reports new onset calf tenderness to the nurse. Which action should the nurse take? A. Administer pain medication. B. Massage the client's calf. C. Apply antiembolic stockings. D. Notify the health care provider.

Notify the health care provider.

A client is brought to the emergency department by ambulance after stepping in a hole and falling. While assessing the client the nurse notes that the client's right leg is shorter than the left leg; the right hip is noticeably deformed and the client is in acute pain. Imaging does not reveal a fracture. What is the most plausible explanation for this client's signs and symptoms? A. Subluxated right hip B. Right hip contusion C. Hip strain D. Traumatic hip dislocation

Traumatic hip dislocation

A client has just had an arthroscopy performed to assess a knee injury. What nursing intervention should the nurse perform following this procedure? A. Wrap the joint in a compression dressing. B. Perform passive range of motion exercises. C. Maintain the knee in flexion for up to 30 minutes. D. Apply heat to the knee.

Wrap the joint in a compression dressing.

A client is admitted to the orthopedic unit in skeletal traction for a fractured proximal femur. Which explanation should the nurse give the client about skeletal traction? A. "Skeletal traction temporarily stabilizes the fracture before surgery." B. "Weights are attached to the leg using a boot." C. "Traction involves passing a pin through the bone." D. "Light weights must be used with skeletal traction."

"Traction involves passing a pin through the bone."

The nurse is caring for a client with dementia who has a fractured femur secondary to a fall. Which approach should the nurse take in regard to pain management with this client? A. Assume that a client with dementia does not feel pain. B. Document that the client is not in pain if the client is sleeping. C. Assess vital signs to determine if the client is in pain. D. Assume that a fracture is painful and the client is in pain.

Assume that a fracture is painful and the client is in pain.

A client with osteoarthritis of the hip for a number of years reports a dull, aching pain with ambulation and pain shooting down the leg at night while sleeping. The nurse recognizes that the client is experiencing which type of pain? A. Acute pain B. Breakthrough pain C. Chronic pain D. Neuropathic pain ANS: C

Chronic pain

A nurse is caring for an older adult client who is preparing for discharge following recovery from a total hip replacement. What outcome must be met prior to discharge? A. Client is able to perform ADLs independently. B. Client is able to perform transfers safely. C. Client is able to weight-bear equally on both legs. D. Client is able to demonstrate full ROM of the affected hip.

Client is able to perform transfers safely.

A client has just begun been receiving skeletal traction and the nurse is aware that muscles in the client's affected limb are spastic. How does this change in muscle tone affect the client's traction prescription? A. Traction must temporarily be aligned in a slightly different direction. B. Extra weight is needed initially to keep the limb in proper alignment. C. A lighter weight should be initially used. D. Weight will temporarily alternate between heavier and lighter weights.

Extra weight is needed initially to keep the limb in proper alignment.

A nurse is caring for a client who is being treated in the hospital for a spontaneous vertebral fracture related to osteoporosis. The nurse should address the nursing diagnosis of Acute Pain Related to Fracture by implementing what intervention? A. Maintenance of high Fowler positioning whenever possible B. Intermittent application of heat to the client's back C. Use of a pressure-reducing mattress D. Passive range of motion exercises

Intermittent application of heat to the client's back

An older adult client sought care for the treatment of a swollen, painful knee joint. Diagnostic imaging and culturing of synovial fluid resulted in a diagnosis of septic arthritis. The nurse should prioritize what aspect of care? A. Administration of oral and IV corticosteroids as prescribed B. Prevention of falls and pathologic fractures C. Maintenance of adequate serum levels of vitamin D D. Intravenous administration of antibiotics

Intravenous administration of antibiotics

A client was fitted with an arm cast after fracturing the humerus. Twelve hours after the application of the cast, the client tells the nurse that the injured arm hurts. Analgesics do not relieve the pain. What would be the most appropriate nursing action? A. Prepare the client for opening or bivalving of the cast. B. Obtain a prescription for a different analgesic. C. Encourage the client to wiggle and move the fingers. D. Petal the edges of the client's cast.

Prepare the client for opening or bivalving of the cast.

The home health nurse is caring for a homebound client who is terminally ill and is delivering a client-controlled analgesia (PCA) pump at today's visit. The family members will be taking care of the client. What would the nurse's priority interventions be for this visit? A. Teach the family the theory of pain management and the use of alternative therapies. B. Provide psychosocial family support during this emotional experience. C. Provide client and family teaching regarding the operation of the pump, monitoring the IV site, and knowing the side effects of the medication. D. Provide family teaching regarding use of morphine, recognizing morphine overdose, and offering spiritual guidance.

Provide client and family teaching regarding the operation of the pump, monitoring the IV site, and knowing the side effects of the medication.

A 75-year-old client has been admitted to the rehabilitation facility after falling and fracturing the left hip. The client has not regained functional ability and may have to be readmitted to an acute-care facility. When planning this client's care, what should the nurse know about the negative effects of the stress associated with pain? A. Stress is less pronounced in older adults because they generally have more sophisticated coping skills than younger adults. B. Stress is particularly harmful in older adults who have been injured or who are ill. C. It affects only those clients who are already debilitated prior to experiencing pain. D. It has no inherent negative effects; it just alerts the person/health care team of an underlying disease process.

Stress is particularly harmful in older adults who have been injured or who are ill.

A nurse is assessing a client who is receiving traction. The nurse's assessment confirms that the client is able to perform plantar flexion. What conclusion can the nurse draw from this finding? A. The leg that was assessed is free from DVT. B. The client's tibial nerve is functional. C. Circulation to the distal extremity is adequate. D. The client does not have peripheral neurovascular dysfunction.

The client's tibial nerve is functional.

A client is asking for a breakthrough dose of analgesia. The pain-medication prescriptions are written as a combination of an opioid analgesic and a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) given together. What is the primary rationale for administering pain medication in this manner? A. To prevent respiratory depression B. To eliminate the need for additional medication during the night C. To achieve better pain control than with one medication alone D. To eliminate the potentially adverse effects of the opioid

To achieve better pain control than with one medication alone

9. When assessing a client's peripheral nerve function, the nurse uses an instrument to prick the fat pad at the top of the client's small finger. This action will assess what nerve? A. Radial B. Ulnar C. Median D. Tibial

Ulnar

The home health nurse is developing a plan of care for a client who will be managing chronic pain at home with NSAID analgesics. Which pain management interventions should the nurse teach the client? Select all that apply. A. Use a pain assessment tool to monitor pain levels and response to interventions. B. Monitor for adverse analgesic effects and notify the health care provider if they occur. C. Take an analgesic when the pain reaches an intolerable level. D. Discuss signs and symptoms and risk of addiction. E. Discuss the use of nonpharmacologic measures of pain control.

Use a pain assessment tool to monitor pain levels and response to interventions. Monitor for adverse analgesic effects and notify the health care provider if they occur. Discuss the use of nonpharmacologic measures of pain control.

The nurse is caring for a client with back pain. The nurse reviews the medications and sees that an NSAID (ibuprofen) is prescribed every 6 hours as needed. How should the nurse best implement preventive pain measures? A. Let the client know ibuprofen is available every 6 hours, if needed. B. Administer ibuprofen if the client's pain rating is 5 or higher, on a 0 to 10 scale. C. Use a pain scale to assess client's pain and offer ibuprofen every 6 hours. D. Assume the client is not in pain if the client does not request pain medication. ANS: C

Use a pain scale to assess client's pain and offer ibuprofen every 6 hours.

A 91-year-old client is slated for orthopedic surgery and the nurse is integrating gerontologic considerations into the client's plan of care. What intervention is most justified in the care of this client? A. Administration of prophylactic antibiotics B. Total parenteral nutrition (TPN) C. Use of a pressure-relieving mattress D. Use of a Foley catheter until discharge

Use of a pressure-relieving mattress