When assessing an ambulatory patient, the nurse observes that both arms swing freely in alternation with leg swings. Which of the following is being assessed?
Muscle strength
Gait
Alignment
Joint function
The Correct Answer is B
A) Muscle strength: While muscle strength can influence gait, it specifically refers to the ability of muscles to exert force against resistance. Assessing muscle strength involves different techniques, such as manual muscle testing, rather than observing arm and leg movements.
B) Gait: The observation that both arms swing freely in alternation with leg swings is a direct assessment of the patient's gait. A normal gait pattern includes coordinated movements of the arms and legs, indicating proper motor function and balance.
C) Alignment: This term refers to the positioning of the body and its parts in relation to one another. While alignment can impact gait, it is not specifically assessed by observing the movement of the arms and legs.
D) Joint function: Joint function assessment typically focuses on the range of motion, stability, and mobility of individual joints. Observing the swing of arms and legs provides insight into overall gait rather than specific joint function.
Free Nursing Test Bank
- Free Pharmacology Quiz 1
- Free Medical-Surgical Quiz 2
- Free Fundamentals Quiz 3
- Free Maternal-Newborn Quiz 4
- Free Anatomy and Physiology Quiz 5
- Free Obstetrics and Pediatrics Quiz 6
- Free Fluid and Electrolytes Quiz 7
- Free Community Health Quiz 8
- Free Promoting Health across the Lifespan Quiz 9
- Free Multidimensional Care Quiz 10
View Related questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Crepitus: This is the correct term to document the grating sound heard when a joint is moved. Crepitus can indicate issues such as the presence of air in the joint, cartilage degeneration, or other pathologies. Using this specific term provides clarity to the medical record and helps other healthcare providers understand the nature of the joint's condition.
B) Positive joint sounds: This phrase is less specific and does not adequately describe the type of sound noted during the assessment. It may also lead to ambiguity, as it lacks the medical precision that crepitus provides.
C) Grating and popping: While this description conveys what the nurse observed, it is not a standardized medical term. Precise documentation is essential in medical records, and using non-standard language can lead to confusion.
D) Crackles: Typically associated with respiratory assessments, crackles refer to sounds heard in the lungs and are not applicable to joint examinations. Therefore, this term would be inappropriate for documenting findings related to joint movement.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) Splint and immobilize the extremity: While immobilizing the injured extremity is important to prevent further injury, it should follow an initial assessment of blood flow and nerve function to ensure there are no vascular or neurological compromises.
B) Apply an ice pack to the ankle: Applying ice can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain. However, it is essential first to assess the circulation to the limb to ensure that applying ice will not worsen any underlying issues.
C) Encourage weight bearing and ambulation: Encouraging weight bearing on a potentially injured ankle can lead to further damage and is not appropriate. The priority is to assess the injury and understand its severity.
D) Assess pulse, color, temperature, and capillary refill: This step is crucial as it evaluates the vascular status of the limb. Assessing these factors helps identify any potential complications, such as compartment syndrome or inadequate blood flow, and guides further management of the injury.