A patient who is diagnosed with a cervical herniated disc complains of pain. The nurse concludes that the patient's pain is caused by which of the following?
Inflammation of the lamina of the involved vertebra
Shifting of two adjacent vertebrae out of alignment
Increased pressure of cerebral spinal fluid within the vertebral column
Compression of the spinal cord by the extruding disc
The Correct Answer is D
A) Inflammation of the lamina of the involved vertebra: While inflammation can contribute to pain, it is not the primary cause in the context of a herniated disc. The pain associated with a herniated disc is typically related to nerve compression rather than inflammation of the lamina itself.
B) Shifting of two adjacent vertebrae out of alignment: This describes a different condition, such as spondylolisthesis. A herniated disc primarily involves the displacement of disc material, rather than a significant misalignment of the vertebrae.
C) Increased pressure of cerebral spinal fluid within the vertebral column: Increased cerebrospinal fluid pressure is not typically associated with herniated discs and does not directly cause the pain related to this condition.
D) Compression of the spinal cord by the extruding disc: This is the most accurate explanation for the patient's pain. A cervical herniated disc can protrude and compress nearby nerve roots or the spinal cord itself, leading to significant pain, weakness, and other neurological symptoms. This compression is the primary cause of pain in patients with this diagnosis.
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) "Women should be familiar with their own breasts so that they can report any changes to their provider": This statement aligns with current recommendations emphasizing the importance of breast self-awareness. Women are encouraged to be familiar with their breast tissue so they can recognize any changes, such as lumps or alterations in size or shape, and report these changes to their healthcare provider. This proactive approach can lead to earlier detection of breast cancer.
B) "All women should have a breast screening with an MRI beginning at age 40": This statement is misleading, as the American Cancer Society does not recommend routine MRI screenings for all women. MRI is typically reserved for women at high risk for breast cancer. The standard guideline includes annual mammograms starting at age 40, but not MRI for all.
C) "Mammograms do not help with detecting breast cancer until after age 54": This statement is incorrect. Mammograms are effective in detecting breast cancer well before age 54, and the American Cancer Society recommends that women start getting annual mammograms at age 40. Early detection through regular screenings is critical for improving outcomes.
D) "Mammograms are only indicated if there is a strong family history": This statement is also inaccurate. While family history can increase the risk for breast cancer and may influence screening frequency, all women are encouraged to have regular mammograms starting at age 40, regardless of family history. This guideline aims to catch potential cancers early in all women.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Barrel Chest: This term describes a condition where the anterior-posterior (AP) diameter of the chest is equal to the transverse diameter, giving the chest a rounded appearance. This finding is often observed in older adults or individuals with chronic respiratory conditions, and it indicates a potential increase in lung volume and air trapping, commonly seen in conditions like emphysema or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
B) Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: While barrel chest can be associated with COPD, it is not a direct descriptor of the chest shape. COPD encompasses various symptoms and physiological changes but does not specifically define the chest's physical appearance as barrel-shaped.
C) Anterior/Posterior Distortion: This term does not accurately describe the findings observed in the assessment. While it suggests some alteration in chest shape, it does not specifically refer to the characteristic appearance of barrel chest, which is a well-defined clinical term.
D) Lordosis: This refers to an excessive inward curve of the spine, particularly in the lumbar region. While it may affect posture and overall body alignment, it does not relate to the chest shape or measurements, making it an inappropriate choice in this context.