A nurse is assessing the reflexes of a client who has an unrepaired femur fracture and has suddenly become stuporous. For which of the following findings should the nurse identify that the client exhibits Babinski's sign?
Dorsiflexion of the great toe
Pronation of the arms
Pinpoint pupils
Jerking contractions of the head and neck
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason:
Babinski's sign is a neurological reflex that's tested by stroking the sole of the foot. A positive Babinski's sign, which is normal in infants but abnormal in adults, is indicated by dorsiflexion of the great toe (the toe points up) while the other toes fan out. This reflex suggests dysfunction of the corticospinal tract, which may be due to various neurological conditions. In the context of a stuporous patient with an unrepaired femur fracture, a positive Babinski's sign could indicate an acute neurological change possibly related to the injury or a secondary complication such as a fat embolism syndrome, which can occur after fractures and may affect the brain.
Choice B reason:
Pronation of the arms is not associated with Babinski's sign. Pronation is a rotational movement where the hand and upper arm are turned inwards. While arm movements are part of the neurological examination, they do not constitute a response to the plantar reflex test used to elicit Babinski's sign.
Choice C reason:
Pinpoint pupils may indicate opioid overdose or damage to the pons due to various causes, but they are not a component of Babinski's sign. Pupil size and reaction to light are important in neurological assessments, but they are separate from the reflexes tested by the Babinski sign.
Choice D reason:
Jerking contractions of the head and neck are not related to Babinski's sign. These could be indicative of seizure activity or other neurological disorders but are not a response to the plantar reflex test.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Hysterosalpingography (HSG) is typically scheduled after menstruation but before ovulation to ensure that the client is not pregnant during the procedure. Scheduling the procedure 5 days prior to menstruation would not be appropriate as it could interfere with the menstrual cycle and the potential early stages of pregnancy.
Choice B reason:
Diarrhea is not a common side effect of HSG. The procedure involves the insertion of a dye into the uterine cavity to visualize the fallopian tubes and uterus via X-ray. While some discomfort, cramping, or spotting may occur, diarrhea is not typically expected.
Choice C reason:
There is no requirement for a client to be on a liquid diet following an HSG procedure. The client can usually resume normal activities and diet immediately after the procedure unless otherwise instructed by their healthcare provider.
Choice D reason:
Shoulder pain is not a typical symptom following HSG. While referred pain to the shoulder can occur with procedures that involve the diaphragm or abdominal cavity, HSG is focused on the reproductive organs and should not cause shoulder pain.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
The statement that symptoms can worsen with penile penetration during intercourse is partially correct. While sexual activity may exacerbate feelings of bulging or discomfort associated with uterine prolapse, it does not typically worsen the prolapse itself⁹. Painful intercourse, known as dyspareunia, is a common symptom of pelvic organ prolapse, which includes uterine prolapse.
Choice B reason:
Feeling a sensation of pressure in the pelvis is a classic symptom of uterine prolapse. As the uterus descends into the vaginal canal, it can create a sensation of fullness or pressure that is often noticeable and uncomfortable for the patient.
Choice C reason:
Low back pain is indeed a symptom that can be associated with uterine prolapse. The weakening of pelvic floor muscles and ligaments that leads to prolapse can also contribute to discomfort in the lower back.
Choice D reason:
The presence of feces in the vagina would not be a direct symptom of uterine prolapse. However, a related condition called rectocele, where the rectum bulges into the vagina, could cause such a symptom. This condition is different from uterine prolapse and would require separate management.
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