A client reports experiencing chronic headaches after a recent upper respiratory tract infection. On physical examination, the nurse notes tenderness when palpating over the sinuses. Which condition is likely?
Rhinitis medicamentosa
Acute bacterial sinusitis
Epistaxis
Allergic rhinitis
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A Reason:
Rhinitis medicamentosa, also known as rebound congestion, is a condition of nasal congestion without other cold or allergy symptoms, typically caused by the overuse of nasal decongestant sprays. It does not usually present with chronic headaches or tenderness over the sinuses, which are more indicative of sinusitis.
Choice B Reason:
Acute bacterial sinusitis is likely the correct diagnosis in this scenario. It often follows a viral upper respiratory infection and presents with symptoms such as thick, discolored nasal mucus, decreased sense of smell, and facial pain or tenderness over the affected sinuses. The chronic headache and noted tenderness upon palpation over the sinuses in the client are consistent with this condition.
Choice C Reason:
Epistaxis, or nosebleed, is bleeding from the nose that can be caused by various factors, including trauma, medication, or environmental conditions. While it can be a symptom of other nasal conditions, it is not typically associated with chronic headaches or sinus tenderness following an upper respiratory infection.
Choice D Reason:
Allergic rhinitis is an allergic reaction to allergens such as pollen, dust, or pet dander, causing symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and sometimes headaches. However, the chronic headache and sinus tenderness described by the client after an infection are more suggestive of sinusitis rather than allergic rhinitis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Palpating in front of the ear would assess the preauricular lymph nodes, not the submental lymph nodes. The preauricular nodes are located just in front of the ears and are typically examined when there is an infection or inflammation in the eyes, ears, or scalp.
Choice B reason:
The submental lymph nodes are located in the midline, just under the chin, behind the bony prominence of the mandible. This is the correct area for palpation when assessing the submental lymph nodes. These nodes drain the lower lip, the floor of the mouth, the tip of the tongue, and the incisors, and they can become enlarged due to infections or malignancies in these areas.
Choice C reason:
Palpating superficial to the sternomastoid would assess the cervical lymph nodes, specifically the anterior cervical nodes, which are not the submental lymph nodes. The sternomastoid muscle is a landmark for several lymph node groups in the neck, but not for the submental group.
Choice D reason:
Palpating at the angle of the mandible would assess the submandibular lymph nodes, not the submental lymph nodes. The submandibular nodes are located beneath the jawline and can become enlarged due to infections or malignancies in the mouth, throat, and salivary glands.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Looking down does not typically expose the sclera and conjunctiva for examination. The lower eyelid covers more of the sclera when the eyes are directed downward, making it less accessible for observation.
Choice B Reason:
Moving the eyes to the left is not the standard direction for examining the sclera and conjunctiva. This movement would not provide an optimal view of the entire sclera and conjunctiva, as it would only stretch the lateral part of the conjunctiva.
Choice C Reason:
Directing the eyes to the right, similar to moving them to the left, does not offer the best exposure for examining the sclera and conjunctiva. The medial part of the conjunctiva would be stretched, but the rest would not be easily visible.
Choice D Reason:
Instructing the client to look up is the correct procedure when examining the sclera and conjunctiva. By looking upward, the client exposes more of the sclera and the palpebral conjunctiva, allowing the nurse to inspect these areas thoroughly for any abnormalities such as redness, swelling, or foreign bodies.
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