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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View Related questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Lordosis: This term specifically refers to an exaggerated inward curvature of the spine, particularly in the cervical or lumbar regions. When the nurse observes an exaggerated cervical curve, lordosis is the correct term to use for documentation, indicating a deviation from the normal spinal alignment.
B) Scoliosis: This condition is characterized by an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine. It does not apply to the observation of an exaggerated cervical curve and would not be appropriate for this finding.
C) Kyphosis: This term denotes an excessive outward curvature of the thoracic spine, often leading to a hunchback appearance. Since the assessment focuses on the cervical region, kyphosis would not accurately describe an exaggerated cervical curve.
D) Normal curve: This term refers to the expected, healthy curvature of the spine. Documenting an exaggerated curve as "normal" would be misleading and does not accurately reflect the observed condition. The nurse should document the finding as lordosis to convey the specific abnormality noted.
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D"]
Explanation
A) Include the student and family in a meeting to elicit her feelings about scoliosis and wearing a brace: This intervention is essential as it encourages open communication and allows the student to express her concerns and feelings about her condition and the brace. Involving the family ensures that they can provide support and understanding during this transition.
B) Suggest that the pediatrician prescribe an anti-anxiety agent for the student: While managing anxiety may be important, it is not the nurse's role to suggest medication without a thorough assessment and evaluation by a healthcare provider. This intervention may not be appropriate in the context of providing support for scoliosis.
C) Teach the student and family about clothing that will hide the brace: This intervention is practical and can help the student feel more comfortable and confident while wearing the brace. By discussing clothing options, the nurse can help alleviate some of the psychological stress associated with wearing a visible brace.
D) Provide contact information for a local scoliosis support group to the student and family: Connecting the family with a support group can provide valuable resources and emotional support. It allows them to engage with others who understand their experiences, which can be reassuring and help them navigate the challenges of scoliosis.