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.
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Stiff neck and shoulder pain: This symptom is very common in clients with a herniated cervical disc. The herniation can lead to irritation or compression of nearby nerves, resulting in localized pain in the neck and shoulder region. Clients often report this discomfort as one of their primary concerns.
B) Cauda equina syndrome: This serious condition arises from compression of the cauda equina, which occurs in the lower lumbar region of the spine, not the cervical area. Therefore, it is not a typical symptom of a cervical disc herniation.
C) Changes in knee and ankle reflexes: These changes are more associated with lumbar spine issues. While cervical disc problems can affect reflexes, they typically do not present as changes in lower limb reflexes, which are primarily linked to lower back conditions.
D) Sciatica: This term usually refers to pain that radiates down the leg due to compression of the sciatic nerve, often associated with lumbar disc herniation. It is not a common symptom of cervical disc herniation, which affects the neck and upper extremities.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Notify the healthcare provider that the client is exaggerating their pain: It is inappropriate for the nurse to assume that the client is exaggerating their pain based solely on their demeanor. Pain perception is subjective and can vary greatly among individuals, especially in conditions like sickle cell anemia.
B) Wait 30 minutes and see if the client is still requesting pain medication: Delaying pain relief can lead to unnecessary suffering. Given that the client rates their pain as a 7 out of 10, which indicates significant discomfort, it is essential to address their pain promptly rather than postponing treatment.
C) Administer the pain medication as prescribed: This is the most appropriate action. Clients with sickle cell anemia often experience severe pain crises, and effective pain management is crucial. Administering the medication as prescribed supports the client's comfort and well-being.
D) Administer half of the ordered dose of pain medication: Modifying the dosage without a provider's order is not appropriate. If the full prescribed dose is warranted based on the pain level, the nurse should administer it as indicated to ensure effective pain management.