NSG 245 Ch 41- Management of Musculoskeletal Disorders

A nurse is teaching a client who was recently diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome. Which statement should the nurse include?

"Ergonomic changes can be incorporated into your workday to reduce stress on your wrist." Explanation: Ergonomic changes, such as adjusting keyboard height, can help clients with carpal tunnel syndrome avoid hyperextension of the wrist. This condition is associated with repetitive tasks such as clerical work, not sports. The condition may be managed with medications, yoga, acupuncture, and wrist (not arm) splints.

The nurse has educated a patient with low back pain about techniques to relieve the back pain and prevent further complications. What statement by the patient shows understanding of the education the nurse provided?

"I will avoid prolonged sitting or walking." Explanation: The nurse encourages the patient to alternate lying, sitting, and walking activities frequently, and advises the patient to avoid sitting, standing, or walking for long periods.

On a visit to the family health care provider, a client is diagnosed with a bunion on the lateral side of the great toe at the metatarsophalangeal joint. Which statement should the nurse include in the teaching session?

"Some bunions are congenital; others are caused by wearing shoes that are too short or narrow." Explanation: Bunions may be congenital or may be acquired by wearing shoes that are too short or narrow, which increases pressure on the bursa at the metatarsophalangeal joint. Acquired bunions can be prevented. Wearing shoes that are too big may cause other types of foot trauma but not bunions. Gout doesn't cause bunions. Although a client with gout may have pain in the big toe, such pain doesn't result from a bunion.

A client comes back to the clinic with a continued complaint of back pain. What time frame does the nurse understand constitutes "chronic pain"?

3 months Explanation: The typical client reports either acute back pain (lasting fewer than 3 months) or chronic back pain (3 months or longer without improvement) and fatigue.

Which client would the nurse identify as having the greatest risk for osteoporosis?

A small-framed, thin 45-year-old white woman Explanation: Small-framed, thin white women are at greatest risk for osteoporosis. African American women have a greater bone density and thus are less susceptible to osteoporosis. Men have an increased bone mass and do not have hormonal changes, and do not acquire osteoporosis as frequently and get it at a later age. Asthma does not increase the risk for osteoporosis.

The nurse is caring for a client with a hip fracture. The physician orders the client to start taking a bisphosphonate. Which medication would the nurse document as given?

Alendronate Explanation: Alendronate is a bisphosphonate medication. Raloxifene is a selective estrogen receptor modulator. Teriparatide is an anabolic agent, and denosumab is a monoclonal antibody agent.

Which of the following patients should the nurse recognize as being at the highest risk for the development of osteomyelitis?

An elderly patient with an infected pressure ulcer in the sacral area Patients who are at high risk of osteomyelitis include those who are poorly nourished, elderly, and obese. The elderly patient with an infected sacral pressure ulcer is at the greatest risk for the development of osteomyelitis, as this patient has two risk factors: age and the presence of a soft-tissue infection that has the potential to extend into the bone. The patient with rheumatoid arthritis has one risk factor and the infant with jaundice has no identifiable risk factors. The patient 6 weeks postsurgery is beyond the usual window of time for the development of a postoperative surgical wound infection

The nurse is preparing a client for a surgical procedure that will allow visualization of the extent of joint damage of the knee for a client with rheumatoid arthritis and also obtain a sample of synovial fluid. What procedure will the nurse prepare the client for?

Arthroscopy Explanation: Arthroscopic examination may be carried out to visualize the extent of joint damage as well as to obtain a sample of synovial fluid. An open reduction would be used for the treatment of a fracture. Needle aspiration will not allow visualization of the joint damage but will allow obtaining the sample of synovial fluid. Arthroplasty is the restructure of the joint surface after diagnosis is made.

A client with diabetes punctured the foot with a sharp object. Within a week, the client developed osteomyelitis of the foot. The client was admitted for IV antibiotic therapy. How long does the nurse anticipate the client will receive IV antibiotics?

At least 4 weeks Explanation: Identification of the causative organism to initiate appropriate and ongoing antibiotic therapy for infection control. IV antibiotic therapy is administered for at least 4 weeks, followed by another 2 weeks (or more) of IV antibiotics or oral antibiotics.

An elderly female with osteoporosis has been hospitalized. Prior to discharge, when teaching the patient, the nurse should include information about which major complication of osteoporosis?

Bone fracture Bone fracture is a major complication of osteoporosis that results when loss of calcium and phosphate increases the fragility of bones. Estrogen deficiencies result from menopause, not osteoporosis. Calcium and vitamin D supplements may be used to support normal bone metabolism, but a negative calcium balance is not a complication of osteoporosis. Dowagers hump results from bone fractures. It develops when repeated vertebral fractures increase spinal curvature.

A nurse is caring for an elderly female client with osteoporosis. When teaching the client, the nurse should include information about which major complication?

Bone fracture Explanation: Bone fracture is a major complication of osteoporosis; it results when loss of calcium and phosphate increases the fragility of bones. Estrogen deficiencies result from menopause — not osteoporosis. Calcium and vitamin D supplements may be used to support normal bone metabolism, but a negative calcium balance isn't a complication of osteoporosis. Dowager's hump results from bone fractures. It develops when repeated vertebral fractures increase spinal curvature.

A patient has been admitted to the medical unit for the treatment of Pagets disease. When reviewing the medication administration record, the nurse should anticipate what medications? Select all that apply.

Calcitonin Bisphosphonates Bisphosphonates are the cornerstone of Paget therapy in that they stabilize the rapid bone turnover. Calcitonin is also used because it retards bone resorption by decreasing the number and availability of osteoclasts. Alkaline phosphatase is a naturally occurring enzyme, not a drug. Calcium gluconate and estrogen are not used in the treatment of Pagets disease.

Which medication directly inhibits osteoclasts, thereby reducing bone loss and increasing BMD?

Calcitonin (Miacalcin) Explanation: Calcitonin directly inhibits osteoclasts, thereby reducing bone loss and increased BMD. Raloxifene reduces the risk of osteoporosis by preserving BMD without estrogenic effects on the uterus. Teriparatide has been recently approved by the FDA for the treatment of osteoporosis.

A nurse is providing an educational class to a group of older adults at a community senior center. In an effort to prevent osteoporosis, the nurse should encourage participants to ensure that they consume the recommended adequate intake of what nutrients? Select all that apply.

Calcium Vitamin D A diet rich in calcium and vitamin D protects against skeletal demineralization. Intake of vitamin B12and potassium does not directly influence the risk for osteoporosis. Calcitonin is not considered to be a dietary nutrient.

A patient tells the nurse that he has pain and numbness to his thumb, first finger, and second finger of the right hand. The nurse discovers that the patient is employed as an auto mechanic, and that the pain is increased while working. This may indicate that the patient could possibly have what health problem?

Carpel tunnel syndrome Carpel tunnel syndrome may be manifested by numbness, pain, paresthesia, and weakness along the median nerve. Tendonitis is inflammation of muscle tendons. Impingement syndrome is a general term that describes all lesions that involve the rotator cuff of the shoulder. Dupuytrens contracture is a slowly progressive contracture of the palmar fascia.

When an infection is bloodborne, the manifestations include which symptom?

Chills Explanation: Manifestations of bloodborne infection include chills, high fever, rapid pulse, and generalized malaise.

A nurse is caring for a patient who is being assessed following complaints of severe and persistent low back pain. The patient is scheduled for diagnostic testing in the morning. Which of the following are appropriate diagnostic tests for assessing low back pain? that apply

Computed tomography (CT) Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) Ultrasound X-ray A variety of diagnostic tests can be used to address lower back pain, including CT, MRI, ultrasound, and X-rays. Angiography is not related to the etiology of back pain.

A patient has been admitted to the hospital with a spontaneous vertebral fracture related to osteoporosis. Which of the following nursing diagnoses must be addressed in the plan of care?

Constipation Related to Vertebral Fracture Constipation is a problem related to immobility and medications used to treat vertebral fractures. The patients risks of aspiration, dysphagia, and decreased cardiac output are not necessarily heightened.

The nurse is asked to explain to the client the age-related processes that contribute to bone loss and osteoporosis. What is the nurse's best response?

Decrease in estrogen Explanation: Age related processes that contribute to loss of bone mass and osteoporosis are decreases in estrogen, calcitonin, and vitamin D and an increase in parathyroid hormone.

A patients electronic health record notes that the patient has hallux valgus. What signs and symptoms would the nurse expect this patient to manifest?

Deviation of a great toe laterally A deformity in which the great toe deviates laterally and there is a marked prominence of the medial aspect of the first metatarsal-phalangeal joint and exostosis is referred to as hallux valgus (bunion). Hallux valgus does not result in abnormal flexion, abnormalities of the arch, or joint fusion.

Which term refers to a flexion deformity caused by a slowly progressive contracture of the palmar fascia?

Dupuytren's contracture Explanation: Dupuytren's disease results in a slowly progressive contracture of the palmar fascia, called Dupuytren's contracture. A callus is a discretely thickened area of skin that has been exposed to persistent pressure or friction. A hammertoe is a flexion deformity of the interphangeal joint, which may involve several toes. Hallux valgus is a deformity in which the great toe deviates laterally.

A patient presents at the clinic with complaints of morning numbness, cramping, and stiffness in his fourth and fifth fingers. What disease process should the nurse suspect?

Dupuytrens disease In cases of Dupuytrens disease, the patient may experience dull, aching discomfort, morning numbness, cramping, and stiffness in the affected fingers. This condition starts in one hand, but eventually both hands are affected. This clinical scenario does not describe tendonitis, a ganglion, or carpal tunnel syndrome.

A nurse is caring for a patient who is 12 hours postoperative following foot surgery. The nurse assesses the presence of edema in the foot. What nursing measure will the nurse implement to control the edema?

Elevate the foot on several pillows To control the edema in the foot of a patient who experienced foot surgery, the nurse will elevate the foot on several pillows when the patient is sitting or lying. Diuretic therapy is not an appropriate intervention for edema related to inflammation. Intermittent ice packs should be applied to the surgical area during the first 24 to 48 hours after surgery to control edema and provide some pain relief. Ambulation will gradually be resumed based on the guidelines provided by the surgeon.

Which group is at the greatest risk for osteoporosis?

European American women Explanation: Small-framed, nonobese European American women are at greatest risk for osteoporosis. Asian American women of slight build are at risk for low peak bone mineral density. African American women, who have a greater bone mass than European American women and Asian American Women, are less susceptible to osteoporosis. Men have a greater peak bone mass and do not experience sudden estrogen reduction.

A patient presents at a clinic complaining of pain in his heel so bad that it inhibits his ability to walk. The patient is subsequently diagnosed with plantar fasciitis. This patients plan of care should include what intervention?

Gently stretching the foot and the Achilles tendon Plantar fasciitis leads to pain that is localized to the anterior medial aspect of the heel and diminishes with gentle stretching of the foot and Achilles tendon. Dressings of any kind are not of therapeutic benefit and analgesic ointments do not address the pathology of the problem. Open-toed shoes are of no particular benefit.

Which of the following was formerly called a bunion?

Hallux valgus Explanation: Hallux valgus (commonly called a bunion) is a deformity in which the great toe deviates laterally. Plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the foot-supporting fascia, present as an acute onset of heel pain experienced with the first steps in the morning. Morton's neuroma is a swelling of the third (lateral) branch of the median plantar nerve. A ganglion, a collection of gelatinous material near the tendon sheaths and joints, appears as a round, firm compressible cystic swelling, usually on the dorsum of the wrist.

A nurse is providing care for a patient who has a recent diagnosis of Pagets disease. When planning this patients nursing care, interventions should address what nursing diagnoses? Select all that apply.

Impaired Physical Mobility Acute Pain Disturbed Auditory Sensory Perception Risk for Injury Patients with Pagets disease are at risk of decreased mobility, pain, hearing loss, and injuries resulting from decreased bone density. Pagets disease does not affect blood glucose levels.

An older adult womans current medication regimen includes alendronate (Fosamax). What outcome would indicate successful therapy?

Increased bone mass Bisphosphonates such as Fosamax increase bone mass and decrease bone loss by inhibiting osteoclast function. These drugs do not treat infection, pain, or tumors.

A female client is at risk for developing osteoporosis. Which action will reduce the client's risk?

Initiating weight-bearing exercise routines Explanation: Performing weight-bearing exercise increases bone health. A sedentary lifestyle increases the risk of developing osteoporosis. Estrogen is needed to promote calcium absorption. The recommended daily intake of calcium is 1,000 mg, not 300 mg.

A nurse is caring for a patient 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?

Intermittent application of heat to the patients back Intermittent local heat and back rubs promote muscle relaxation following osteoporotic vertebral fractures. High Fowlers positioning is likely to exacerbate pain. The mattress must be adequately supportive, but pressure reduction is not necessarily required. Passive range of motion exercises to the back would cause pain and impair healing

An older adult patient 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 which of the following aspects of care?

Intravenous administration of antibiotics IV antibiotics are the major treatment modality for septic arthritis; the nurse must ensure timely administration of these drugs. Corticosteroids are not used to treat septic arthritis and vitamin D levels are not necessarily affected. Falls prevention is important, but septic arthritis does not constitute the same fracture risk as diseases with decreased bone density.

A patient is undergoing diagnostic testing for osteomalacia. Which of the following laboratory results is most suggestive of this diagnosis?

Low serum calcium and low phosphorus level Laboratory studies will reveal a low serum calcium and low phosphorus level.

A nurse is assessing a patient who reports a throbbing, burning sensation in the right foot. The patient states that the pain is worst during the day but notes that the pain is relieved with rest. The nurse should recognize the signs and symptoms of what health problem?

Mortons neuroma Mortons neuroma is a swelling of the third (lateral) branch of the median plantar nerve, which causes a throbbing, burning pain, usually relieved with rest. Pescavus refers to a foot with an abnormally high arch and a fixed equinus deformity of the forefoot. Hallux valgus (bunion) is a deformity in which the great toe deviates laterally and there is a marked prominence of the medial aspect of the first metatarsal- phalangeal joint and exostosis. Onychocryptosis (ingrown toenail) occurs when the free edge of a nail plate penetrates the surrounding skin, laterally or anteriorly.

A patient has come to the clinic for a routine annual physical. The nurse practitioner notes a palpable, painless projection of bone at the patients shoulder. The projection appears to be at the distal end of the humerus. The nurse should suspect the presence of which of the following?

Osteochondroma Osteochondroma is the most common benign bone tumor. It usually occurs as a large projection of bone at the end of long bones (at the knee or shoulder). Osteomyelitis, osteomalacia, and Pagets disease do not involve the development of excess bone tissue.

Which of the following is the most common and most fatal primary malignant bone tumor?

Osteogenic sarcoma (osteosarcoma) Explanation: Osteogenic sarcoma (osteosarcoma) is the most common and most often fatal primary malignant bone tumor. Benign primary neoplasms of the musculoskeletal system include osteochondroma, enchondroma, and rhabdomyoma.

A patient with diabetes is attending a class on the prevention of associated diseases. What action should the patient perform to reduce the risk of osteomyelitis?

Perform meticulous foot care. Diabetic foot ulcers have a high potential for progressing to osteomyelitis. Meticulous foot care can help mitigate this risk. Corticosteroids can exacerbate the risk of osteomyelitis. Increased intake of calcium and vitamins as well as regular exercise are beneficial health promotion exercises, but they do not directly reduce the risk of osteomyelitis.

A nurse is caring for a client following foot surgery. Which nursing intervention is most important for the nurse to include in the nursing care plan?

Perform neuromuscular assessment every hour. Explanation: The priority nursing intervention is to perform a neuromuscular assessment every hour. Early detection of neurological and perfusion problems is important to prevent complications from the surgery. The surgical dressing does not need to be examined hourly. Administering pain medication is important, but assessing the foot color and temperature are most important. Vital sign monitoring is important, but not a priority after foot surgery.

A client has Paget's disease. An appropriate nursing diagnosis for this client is:

Risk for falls Explanation: The client with Paget's disease is at risk for falls secondary to pathological fractures and impaired gait/mobility.

A nurse is collaborating with the physical therapist to plan the care of a patient with osteomyelitis. What principle should guide the management of activity and mobility in this patient?

Stress on the weakened bone must be avoided The patient with osteomyelitis has bone that is weakened by the infective process and must be protected by avoidance of stress on the bone.This risk guides the choice of activity in a patient with osteomyelitis. Bed rest is not normally indicated, however. Maintenance of prediagnosis ADLs may be an unrealistic short-term goal for many patients

A patient is having low back pain. What position can the nurse suggest to relieve this discomfort?

Supine, with the knees slightly flexed and the head of the bed elevated 30 degrees Explanation: A medium to firm, not sagging mattress (a bed board may be used) is recommended; there is no evidence to support the use of a firm mattress (National Guideline Clearinghouse, 2010). Lumbar flexion is increased by elevating the head and thorax 30 degrees by using pillows or a foam wedge and slightly flexing the knees supported on a pillow. Alternatively, the patient can assume a lateral position with knees and hips flexed (curled position) with a pillow between the knees and legs and a pillow supporting the head (Fig. 42-1). A prone position should be avoided because it accentuates lordosis.

In chronic osteomyelitis, antibiotics are adjunctive therapy in which situation?

Surgical debridement Explanation: In chronic osteomyelitis, antibiotics are adjunctive therapy to surgical debridement.

During a routine physical examination on an older female client, a nurse notes that the client is 5 feet, 3/8 inches (1.6 m) tall. The client states, "How is that possible? I was always 5 feet and 1/2? (1.7 m) tall." Which statement is the best response by the nurse?

"After menopause, the body's bone density declines, resulting in a gradual loss of height." Explanation: The nurse should tell the client that after menopause, the loss of estrogen leads to a loss in bone density, resulting in a loss of height. This client's history doesn't indicate spinal compression. Telling the client that measuring tools used to obtain the client's height may have a discrepancy or that the posture begins to stoop after middle age doesn't address the client's question.

A client diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) asks the nurse about numbness in the fingers and pain in the wrist. What is the best response by the nurse?

"CTS is a neuropathy that is characterized by compression of the median nerve at the wrist." Explanation: Carpal tunnel syndrome is an entrapment neuropathy that occurs when the median nerve at the wrist is compressed by a thickened flexor tendon sheath, skeletal encroachment, edema, or a soft tissue mass.

A nurse is planning discharge instructions for the client with osteomyelitis. What instructions should the nurse include in the discharge teaching?

"You will receive IV antibiotics for 3 to 6 weeks." Explanation: Treatment of osteomyelitis requires IV antibiotics for 3 to 6 weeks. Continuous passive range of motion is used for clients with osteoarthritis. Weight-bearing exercises are used with clients who have osteoporosis. Limiting protein and calcium is not part of the plan of care for clients with osteomyelitis.

A client with osteoporosis is prescribed calcitonin 100 units subcutaneously. The medication is available 200 units per ml. How many milliliters will the nurse administer to the client?

0.5 mL

Health education for a woman over age 50 includes providing information about the importance of adequate amounts of calcium and vitamin D to prevent osteoporosis. Select the daily dosage of calcium and vitamin D that the nurse should recommend.

1,200 mg; 1,000 IU Explanation: The daily recommended dosage is 1,200 mg of calcium and 1,000 IU of vitamin D.

A nurse is caring for a patient with Pagets disease and is reviewing the patients most recent laboratory values. Which of the following values is most characteristic of Pagets disease?

An elevated serum alkaline phosphatase level and a normal serum calcium level Patients with Pagets disease have normal blood calcium levels. Elevated serum alkaline phosphatase concentration and urinary hydroxyproline excretion reflect the increased osteoblastic activity associated with this condition. Alterations in PTH and calcitonin levels are atypical.

A nurse is caring for an adult patient diagnosed with a back strain. What health education should the nurse provide to this patient?

Avoid lifting more than one-third of body weight without assistance. The nurse will instruct the patient on the safe and correct way to lift objectsusing the strong quadriceps muscles of the thighs, with minimal use of the weak back muscles. To prevent recurrence of acute low back pain, the nurse may instruct the patient to avoid lifting more than one-third of his weight without help. The patient should be informed to place the feet a hip-width apart to provide a wide base of support, the person should bend the knees, tighten the abdominal muscles, and lift the object close to the body with a smooth motion, avoiding twisting and jerking.

What food can the nurse suggest to the client at risk for osteoporosis?

Broccoli Explanation: Calcium is important for the prevention of osteoporosis. Broccoli is high in calcium.

A nurse is discussing conservative management of tendonitis with a patient. Which of the following may be an effective approach to managing tendonitis?

C) Intermittent application of ice and heat Feedback: Conservative management of tendonitis includes rest of the extremity, intermittent ice and heat to the joint, and NSAIDs. Weight reduction may prevent future injuries but will not relieve existing tendonitis. Range-of-motion exercises may exacerbate pain. Opioids would not be considered a conservative treatment measure.

A nurse is reviewing the pathophysiology that may underlie a patients decreased bone density. What hormone should the nurse identify as inhibiting bone resorption and promoting bone formation?

Calcitonin Calcitonin inhibits bone resorption and promotes bone formation, estrogen inhibits bone breakdown, and parathyroid increases bone resorption. Estrogen, which inhibits bone breakdown, decreases with aging. Parathyroid hormone (PTH) increases with aging, increasing bone turnover and resorption. Progesterone is the major naturally occurring human progestogen and plays a role in the female menstrual cycle

Which medication directly inhibits osteoclasts, thereby reducing bone loss and increasing bone mass density (BMD)?

Calcitonin Explanation: Calcitonin directly inhibits osteoclasts, thereby reducing bone loss and increased BMD. Raloxifene reduces the risk of osteoporosis by preserving BMD without estrogenic effects on the uterus. Teriparatide has been recently approved by the FDA for the treatment of osteoporosis. Vitamin D increases the absorption of calcium.

A nurse is teaching a patient with osteomalacia about the role of diet. What would be the best choice for breakfast for a patient with osteomalacia?

Cereal with milk, a scrambled egg, and grapefruit The best meal option is the one that contains the highest dietary sources of calcium and vitamin D. The best selection among those listed is cereal with milk, and eggs, as these foods contain calcium and vitamin D in a higher quantity over the other menu options.

A nurse is caring for a client with eczema. Which medication would be prescribed when an allergy is a factor causing the skin disorder?

Chlorpheniramine Explanation: Antihistamines such as chlorpheniramine are frequently prescribed when an allergy is a factor in causing a skin disorder. Antihistamines relieve itching and shorten the duration of allergic reaction. Corticosteroids such as dexamethasone are used to relieve inflammatory or allergic symptoms. Antibiotics such as dicloxacillin are used to treat infectious disorders. Local anesthetics such as bupivacaine are used to relieve minor skin pain and itching.

A nurse is reviewing the care of a patient 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?

Cyclobenzaprine Short-term prescription muscle relaxants (e.g., cyclobenzaprine [Flexeril]) are effective in relieving acute low back pain. ASA is not normally used for pain control, due to its antiplatelet action and associated risk for bleeding. Calcitonin and corticosteroids are not used in the treatment of lower back pain.

A patient 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?

Delayed wound healing Delayed wound healing is a complication of surgery due to tissue trauma from the surgery. Nutritional deficiency is usually due to the effects of chemotherapy and radiation therapy, which may cause weight loss. Pathologic fractures are not a complication of surgery.

What term refers to a flexion deformity caused by a slowly progressive contracture of the palmar fascia?

Dupuytren contracture Explanation: Dupuytren disease results in a slowly progressive contracture of the palmar fascia, called Dupuytren contracture. A callus is a discretely thickened area of skin that has been exposed to persistent pressure or friction. A hammertoe is a flexion deformity of the interphalangeal joint, which may involve several toes. Hallux valgus is a deformity in which the great toe deviates laterally.

A nurse is planning the care of an older adult patient with osteomalacia. What action should the nurse recommend in order to promote vitamin D synthesis?

Ensuring adequate exposure to sunlight Because sunlight is necessary for synthesizing vitamin D, patients should be encouraged to spend some time in the sun. A low-purine diet is not a relevant action and thyroid supplements do not directly affect bone function. Action must be taken to prevent fractures, but weight-bearing exercise within safe parameters is not necessarily contraindicated.

A healthcare provider asks a nurse to test a client for Tinel's sign to diagnose carpal tunnel syndrome. What should the nurse do to perform this assessment?

Have the client hold the palm of the hand up while the nurse percusses over the median nerve. Explanation: If tingling, numbness, or pain is felt when the median nerve is percussed, then Tinel's sign is considered positive. To test for Tinel's sign have the client hold the palm of the hand up while the nurse percusses over the median nerve. The client making a fist and pushing will test strength resistance. The client stretching fingers around a ball will not test for Tinel's sign. Having the client pronate the hand and palpating the radial nerve is not Tinel's sign used for carpal tunnel syndrome diagnosis.

A physician prescribes raloxifene to a hospitalized client. The client's history includes a right hip fracture, hysterectomy, deep vein thrombosis, and hypertension. Which action by the nurse demonstrates safe nursing care?

Holding the raloxifene and notifying the physician Explanation: Raloxifene is contraindicated in clients with a history of deep vein thrombosis. The nurse should hold the medication and notify the physician. Raloxifene can be given without regard to food or time of day. Raloxifene is a selective estrogen receptor modulation medication. Sitting upright for 30-60 minutes is indicated with drugs classified as bisphosphonates.

A client visits an orthopedic specialist because of pain beginning in the low back and radiating behind the right thigh and down below the right knee. The doctor suspects a diagnosis of sciatica. The nurse knows that the origin of the pain is between which intervertebral disks?

L4, L5, and S1 Explanation: The lower lumbar disks, L4-L5 and L5-S1, are subject to the greatest mechanical stress and the greatest degenerative changes. Disk protrusion (herniated nucleus pulposus) or facet joint changes can cause pressure on nerve roots as they leave the spinal canal, which results in pain that radiates along the nerve.

Using proper body mechanics to lift objects is essential to prevent exacerbations of low back pain. Which of the following is the most important teaching point?

Lift with the large leg muscles (quadriceps), not the back muscles. Explanation: All teaching points are important but the most important involves limiting back strain by maximizing the use of the quadriceps muscle.

Assessment of a client reveals signs and symptoms of Paget's disease. Which of the following would be most likely?

Long bone bowing Explanation: Some clients with Paget's disease are asymptomatic with only some mild skeletal deformity. Other clients have marked skeletal deformities which may include enlargement of the skull, bowing of the long bones, and kyphosis.

A nurse is providing care for a patient who has osteomalacia. What major goal will guide the choice of medical and nursing interventions?

Maintenance of adequate levels of activated vitamin D The primary defect in osteomalacia is a deficiency of activated vitamin D, which promotes calcium absorption from the gastrointestinal tract and facilitates mineralization of bone. Interventions are aimed at resolving the processes underlying this deficiency. Maintenance of skin integrity is important, but is not the primary goal in care. Osteomalacia is not a malignant process. Overproduction (not underproduction) of PTH can cause the disease.

The nurse is screening a client for genetic counseling. What musculoskeletal conditions does the nurse know to have a genetic influence? Select all that apply.

Marfan syndrome osteoporosis Stickler syndrome Osteoporosis, Marfan syndrome, and Stickler syndrome are conditions that have a genetic influence. Osteoarthritis is not influenced by genetic factors. Diabetes mellitus is not a musculoskeletal disorder with known genetic influence.

A client with carpal tunnel syndrome has had limited improvement with the use of a wrist splint. The nurse knows that which procedure will show the greatest improvement in treatment for this client?

Open nerve release Explanation: Evidence-based treatment of acute carpal tunnel syndrome includes the application of splints to prevent hyperextension and prolonged flexion of the wrist. Should this treatment fail, open nerve release is a common surgical management option. A variety of treatments may be tried by the client, however, they may fail to improve the condition. These treatments include laser therapy, ultrasound therapy, and the injection of substances such as lidocaine. Though these can be used, surgery to release nerves is the best option.

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 patient should undergo diagnostic testing for what health problem?

Osteomyelitis When osteomyelitis develops from the spread of an adjacent infection, no signs of septicemia are present, but the area becomes swollen, warm, painful, and tender to touch. Osteoporosis is the most prevalent bone disease in the world. Osteomalacia is a metabolic bone disease characterized by inadequate mineralization of bone. Septicarthritis occurs when joints become infected through spread of infection from other parts of the body (hematogenous spread) or directly through trauma or surgical instrumentation.

A patient with diabetes has been diagnosed with osteomyelitis. The nurse notes that the patients 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?

Osteomyelitis with vascular insufficiency Osteomyelitis is classified as hematogenous osteomyelitis (i.e., due to blood-borne spread of infection); contiguous-focus osteomyelitis, from contamination from bone surgery, open fracture, or traumatic injury (e.g., gunshot wound); and osteomyelitis with vascular insufficiency, seen most commonly among patients with diabetes and peripheral vascular disease, most commonly affecting the feet. Osteomyelitis with muscular deterioration does not exist

A nurse is providing discharge teaching for a patient who underwent foot surgery. The nurse is collaborating with the occupational therapist and discussing the use of assistive devices. On what variables does the choice of assistive devices primarily depend?

Patients general condition, balance, and weight-bearing prescription Assistive devices (e.g., crutches, walker) may be needed. The choice of the devices depends on the patients general condition and balance, and on the weight-bearing prescription. The patients strength, motivation, and weight restrictions are not what the choice of assistive devices is based on

A nurse is caring for an older woman with a hip fracture. What are appropriate risk factors for the nurse to consider related to the client's hip fracture? Select all that apply.

Presence of anemia Female gender Osteoporosis Anemia, female gender, and osteoporosis are risk factors for hip fractures. Muscular agility decreases the risk for hip fracture. A history of diverticulitis is not related to hip fractures.

A patient presents at a clinic complaining of back pain that goes all the way down the back of the leg to the foot. The nurse should document the presence of what type of pain?

Sciatica Sciatica nerve pain travels down the back of the thigh to the foot of the affected leg. Bursitis is inflammation of a fluid-filled sac in a joint. Radiculopathy is disease of a nerve root. Tendonitis is inflammation of muscle tendons.

A nurse is providing a class on osteoporosis at the local seniors center. Which of the following statements related to osteoporosis is most accurate?

Slow discontinuation of corticosteroid therapy can halt the progression of the osteoporosis. When corticosteroid therapy is discontinued, the progression of osteoporosis is halted, but restoration of lost bone mass does not occur. Osteoporosis is not a disease of the elderly because its onset occurs earlier in life, when bone mass peaks and then begins to decline. A persons level of physical activity is a modifiable factor that influences peak bone mass. Lack of activity increases the risk for the development of osteoporosis. Primary osteoporosis occurs in women after menopause.

A nursing educator is reviewing the risk factors for osteoporosis with a group of recent graduates. What risk factor of the following should the educator describe?

Small frame, female gender, and Caucasian ethnicity Small-framed, nonobese Caucasian women are at greatest risk for osteoporosis. Diabetes, high protein intake, alcohol use, and infections are not among the most salient risk factors for osteoporosis.

A patient presents to a clinic complaining of a leg ulcer that isnt healing; subsequent diagnostic testing suggests osteomyelitis. The nurse is aware that the most common pathogen to cause osteomyelitis is what?

Staphylococcus aureus S. aureus causes over 50% of bone infections. Proteus, Pseudomonas, and E. coli are also causes, but to a lesser extent.

The health care team is caring for a patient with osteomalacia. It has been determined that the osteomalacia is caused by malabsorption. What is the usual treatment for osteomalacia caused by malabsorption?

Supplemental calcium and increased doses of vitamin D If osteomalacia is caused by malabsorption, increased doses of vitamin D, along with supplemental calcium are usually prescribed

A 32-year-old patient comes to the clinic complaining of shoulder tenderness, pain, and limited movement. Upon assessment the nurse finds edema. An MRI shows hemorrhage of the rotator cuff tendons and the patient is diagnosed with impingement syndrome. What action should the nurse recommend in order to promote healing?

Support the affected arm on pillows at night. The patient should support the affected arm on pillows while sleeping to keep from turning onto the shoulder. Corticosteroids are not commonly prescribed and a sling is not normally necessary. ROM exercises are indicated, but putting the arm through its full ROM may cause damage during the healing process.

A nurse is caring for a patient with a bone tumor. The nurse is providing education to help the patient reduce the risk for pathologic fractures. What should the nurse teach the patient?

Support the affected extremity with external supports such as splints. During nursing care, the affected extremities must be supported and handled gently. External supports (splints) may be used for additional protection. Prescribed weight-bearing restrictions must be followed. Assistive devices should be used to strengthen the unaffected extremities.

Morton neuroma is exhibited by which clinical manifestation?

Swelling of the third (lateral) branch of the median plantar nerve Explanation: Morton neuroma is swelling of the third branch of the median plantar nerve. Pes cavus refers to a foot with an abnormally high arch and a fixed equinus deformity of the forefoot. Flatfoot is a common disorder in which the longitudinal arch of the foot is diminished. Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the foot-supporting fascia.

A client has been treated for migraine headaches for several months and comes to the clinic reporting no improvement. The nurse is talking with the client and hears an audible click when the client is moving the jaw. What does the nurse suspect may be happening?

Temporomandibular disorder Explanation: The disorder can be confused with trigeminal neuralgia and migraine headaches. The client experiences clicking of the jaw when moving the joint, or the jaw can lock, which interferes with opening the mouth. Loose teeth will not cause a clicking of the jaw. The client does not have a dislocated jaw.

An orthopedic nurse is caring for a patient who is postoperative day one following foot surgery. What nursing intervention should be included in the patients subsequent care?

The foot should be elevated in order to prevent edema. Pain experienced by patients who undergo foot surgery is related to inflammation and edema. To control the anticipated edema, the foot should be elevated on several pillows when the patient is sitting or lying. Regular dressing changes are performed and the wound should be kept dry. Hydrogen peroxide is not used to cleanse surgical wounds.

A nurse is teaching a client about preventing osteoporosis. Which teaching point is correct?

The recommended daily allowance of calcium may be found in a wide variety of foods. Explanation: Premenopausal women require 1,000 mg of calcium per day. Postmenopausal women require 1,500 mg per day. Clients usually can get the recommended daily requirement of calcium by eating a varied diet. Osteoporosis doesn't show up on ordinary X-rays until 30% of bone has been lost. Bone densitometry, however, can detect bone loss of 3% or less. This test is sometimes recommended routinely for women older than 35 who are at risk for osteoporosis. Strenuous exercise won't cause fractures. Although supplements are available, they aren't always necessary.

A client with a musculoskeletal injury is instructed to alter the diet. The objective of altering the diet is to facilitate the absorption of calcium from food and supplements. Considering the food intake objective, which food item should the nurse encourage the client to include in the diet?

Vitamin D-fortified milk Explanation: The nurse should advise the client to include dietary sources of vitamin D, such as fatty fish, vitamin D-fortified milk, and cereals. These foods protect against bone loss and decrease the risk of fracture by facilitating the absorption of calcium from food and supplements. Red meat, bananas, and green vegetables do not facilitate calcium absorption from food and supplements.

The nurse is assisting a client with removing shoes prior to an examination and observes that the client has a flexion deformity of several toes on both feet of the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joints. What can the nurse encourage the client to do?

Wear properly fitting shoes. Explanation: Hammer toe is a flexion deformity of the PIP joint and may involve several toes and may result from wearing poorly fitting shoes. They will not straighten by binding the toes or doing active range of motion exercises. Surgery is an option but should be discussed with an orthopedic surgeon or podiatrist.

Which is not a risk factor for osteoporosis?

being male Explanation: Being male is not considered a risk factor. Some of the risk factors for osteoporosis are being a small-framed, thin White or Asian woman; being postmenopausal; family history; inactivity; chronic low calcium intake; and excessive caffeine or tobacco use.

The nurse is educating a client with low back pain on proper lifting techniques. The nurse recognizes that the education was effective when the client

places the load close to the body. Explanation: Instructions for the client with low back pain should include that, when lifting, the client should avoid overreaching. The client should also keep the load close to the body, bend the knees, and tighten the abdominal muscles; use a wide base of support; and use a back brace to protect the back. Bending at the hips increases the strain on the back muscles when lifting.