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 ["B","C","D","E"]
Explanation
A) Range of motion: While assessing range of motion can provide information about joint function, it is not a specific component of a peripheral vascular assessment. This assessment primarily focuses on circulation and vascular integrity rather than mobility.
B) Color: Assessing the color of the upper extremities is essential in a peripheral vascular assessment. Changes in color can indicate issues such as poor circulation, hypoxia, or vascular disease, making it a critical observation.
C) Fine motor assessment by having the client touch each finger to thumb: This assessment evaluates both coordination and dexterity, which can indicate adequate blood flow to the fingers and upper extremities. It helps to assess the functional capacity of the hands in relation to vascular health.
D) Pain assessment: Evaluating for pain in the upper extremities is important, as pain can be a sign of vascular problems, including conditions like peripheral artery disease. It provides insight into the presence of ischemia or other vascular issues.
E) Pulses intact: Assessing the pulses in the upper extremities is a key component of a peripheral vascular assessment. Palpating the radial and brachial pulses helps determine blood flow and vascular function in the arms.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) To establish a rapport with the client and family: While building rapport is an important aspect of the health assessment process, it is not the primary purpose. Establishing a trusting relationship can enhance communication and the quality of care, but the overarching goal of the assessment extends beyond interpersonal dynamics.
B) To establish a database against which subsequent assessments can be measured: This is the primary purpose of a health assessment. By collecting comprehensive baseline data regarding a client's health status, the nurse creates a reference point for future evaluations. This allows for the monitoring of changes in the patient's condition over time, facilitating timely interventions when necessary.
C) To gather information for specialists to whom the client may be referred: Although gathering relevant information for potential referrals is beneficial, it is not the main purpose of the health assessment. The assessment primarily serves to inform the current healthcare team about the patient's status rather than focusing solely on future consultations.
D) To qualify the degree of pain the client may be experiencing: Assessing pain is an important component of a comprehensive health assessment, but it is just one aspect among many. The overall purpose of the health assessment encompasses a broader evaluation of physical, emotional, and social factors affecting the client's health.