A nurse is caring for a client who has degenerative disc disease and has been diagnosed with cauda equine syndrome. Which of the following would be an expected finding with this condition?
Paralytic lleus
Blood pressure 80/48 mm Hg
Weakness in one or both legs
Potassium 3.2 mEq/L
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A Reason:
Paralytic ileus is incorrect. Paralytic ileus is a condition characterized by obstruction of the intestines due to paralysis of the intestinal muscles, resulting in symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and constipation. Paralytic ileus is not typically associated with cauda equina syndrome, which primarily affects the nerves in the lower back and lower extremities.
Choice B Reason:
Blood pressure 80/48 mm Hg is incorrect. While cauda equina syndrome can cause neurological symptoms such as lower extremity weakness, numbness, and bowel or bladder dysfunction, it is not typically associated with alterations in blood pressure. Blood pressure changes may occur in response to pain or other systemic factors, but they are not specific to cauda equina syndrome.
Choice C Reason:
Weakness in one or both legs is correct. Yes, weakness in one or both legs is a characteristic finding of cauda equina syndrome. Compression of the nerve roots in the lower spinal cord can lead to motor deficits, including weakness, difficulty walking, and loss of reflexes in the lower extremities.
Choice D Reason:
Potassium 3.2 mEq/L is incorrect. Serum potassium levels are not typically associated with cauda equina syndrome. Abnormal potassium levels may be indicative of electrolyte imbalances, which can occur in various medical conditions but are not specific to cauda equina syndrome.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["C","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Bladder spasms are not commonly reported as adverse effects of methylprednisolone. However, bladder dysfunction can occur in individuals with multiple sclerosis due to the disease process itself, but it is not specifically related to corticosteroid therapy.
Choice B Reason:
Hypotension is not a common adverse effect of methylprednisolone. In fact, corticosteroids can often lead to fluid retention and sodium retention, which can contribute to hypertension rather than hypotension.
Choice C Reason:
Delayed wound healing is correct. Corticosteroids can impair the body's ability to heal wounds by suppressing the inflammatory response and collagen synthesis. Therefore, clients receiving methylprednisolone may experience delayed wound healing, which can be problematic, especially in individuals with pre-existing wounds or undergoing surgical procedures.
Choice D Reason:
Hirsutism (excessive hair growth, especially in women) can occur with long-term corticosteroid use due to the effect of steroids on hair follicles. It is a possible adverse effect of methylprednisolone.
Choice E Reason:
Hyperglycemia is correct. Corticosteroids can increase blood glucose levels by promoting gluconeogenesis, reducing glucose uptake by tissues, and inducing insulin resistance. Clients receiving methylprednisolone may develop hyperglycemia, which can be particularly concerning for individuals with diabetes or those at risk of developing diabetes.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Typical pneumonia is correct. Streptococcus pneumoniae is a common bacterial pathogen that causes typical pneumonia, also known as community-acquired pneumonia (CAP). Typical pneumonia is characterized by an acute onset of symptoms such as fever, productive cough with purulent sputum, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Streptococcus pneumoniae is one of the most common causes of typical pneumonia, especially in community settings.
Choice B Reason:
Chemical pneumonitis is incorrect. chemical pneumonitis, refers to inflammation of the lung tissue caused by inhalation or aspiration of toxic chemicals, gases, or gastric contents. It is not caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae.
Choice C Reason:
Atypical pneumonia is incorrect. Atypical pneumonia, refers to pneumonia caused by atypical pathogens such as Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Chlamydophila pneumoniae, and Legionella pneumophila. Atypical pneumonia typically presents with milder symptoms compared to typical pneumonia and may not respond to traditional antibiotics used for typical bacterial pneumonia.
Choice D Reason:
Aspiration pneumonia. Aspiration pneumonia, occurs when foreign material, such as food, saliva, or gastric contents, is aspirated into the lungs, leading to inflammation and infection. While Streptococcus pneumoniae can cause pneumonia in the context of aspiration, it is more commonly associated with typical pneumonia acquired through inhalation of respiratory droplets containing the bacteria.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.