A nurse is caring for a client who has degenerative disc disease. Which of the following assessment findings should the nurse understand might develop with this condition?
(Select All that Apply.)
Hyponatremia
Paresthesia
Foot drop
Intermittent pain Hyperreflexia
Correct Answer : B,C,D
Choice A Reason:
Hyponatremia is incorrect. Hyponatremia refers to low sodium levels in the blood and is not typically associated with degenerative disc disease. This finding is unrelated to the pathophysiology of DDD.
Choice B Reason:
Paresthesia is correct. Yes, paresthesia, which refers to abnormal sensations such as tingling, numbness, or burning, can develop with degenerative disc disease. Nerve compression or irritation due to disc degeneration can lead to paresthesia in the affected area, typically radiating along the nerve pathway.
Choice B Reason:
Foot drop is correct. Yes, foot drop can develop with degenerative disc disease, especially if the condition leads to nerve compression or damage in the lumbar spine (lower back). Foot drop refers to difficulty lifting the front part of the foot due to weakness or paralysis of the muscles involved in dorsiflexion.
Choice D Reason:
Intermittent pain is correct. Yes, intermittent pain is a hallmark symptom of degenerative disc disease. Pain may vary in intensity and may worsen with certain movements or activities. Individuals with DDD may experience episodes of acute pain, as well as chronic, persistent discomfort.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
"Are you having any feelings of depression?". This statement is appropriate. Migraines can significantly impact mood, and depression is a common comorbidity in individuals with chronic migraines. Inquiring about feelings of depression allows the nurse to assess the client's mental health status and provide appropriate support or referrals if needed.
Choice B Reason:
"Are you experiencing any sensitivity to light?": This statement is inappropriate. This question addresses a physical symptom commonly associated with migraines rather than psychosocial impact.
Choice C Reason:
"Are you feeling any increase in your sexual drive?"Migraines are more likely to decrease sexual drive due to pain and fatigue. This question is not typically relevant to the psychosocial impact of migraines.
Choice D Reason:
"Are you experiencing any episodes of 'panic-type' feelings?" This statement is appropriate. Migraines can sometimes trigger anxiety or panic attacks in affected individuals. Inquiring about panic-type feelings allows the nurse to assess the client's emotional response to migraines and provide interventions or referrals for anxiety management if necessary.
Choice E Reason:
"Are you experiencing more fatigue as compared to before you had migraines?": This statement is appropriate. Fatigue is a common symptom associated with migraines, both during and after an attack. Assessing the client's level of fatigue helps the nurse understand the impact of migraines on the client's energy levels and overall functioning.
Correct Answer is ["A","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
The client admitted with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is correct. Diabetes is a common cause of peripheral neuropathy, particularly if poorly controlled. Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a severe complication of diabetes characterized by high blood sugar levels and ketone accumulation. Prolonged uncontrolled diabetes can lead to nerve damage and peripheral neuropathy.
Choice B Reason:
The client admitted with sleep apnea is incorrect. Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder characterized by pauses in breathing or shallow breathing during sleep. While sleep apnea itself is not typically associated with peripheral neuropathy, underlying conditions such as obesity or diabetes, which are risk factors for sleep apnea, can also increase the risk of peripheral neuropathy.
Choice C Reason:
The client admitted with a hypertensive crisis is incorrect. Hypertension (high blood pressure) is not directly associated with peripheral neuropathy. However, poorly controlled hypertension can lead to vascular complications and contribute to conditions such as atherosclerosis, which may indirectly increase the risk of peripheral neuropathy.
Choice D Reason:
The client admitted for an exacerbation of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is correct. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease that can affect various organs and tissues, including the peripheral nerves. Peripheral neuropathy can occur as a complication of SLE, particularly in cases of active disease or as a result of certain medications used to treat SLE.
Choice E Reason:
The client admitted with untreated tuberculosis is incorrect. Tuberculosis (TB) is a bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. While TB itself is not typically associated with peripheral neuropathy, certain medications used to treat TB, such as isoniazid, can cause peripheral neuropathy as a side effect.
Choice F Reason:
The client admitted with cirrhosis secondary to chronic alcohol use is correct. Chronic alcohol use and cirrhosis can lead to various neurological complications, including peripheral neuropathy. Alcohol-related peripheral neuropathy often presents with sensory symptoms such as tingling, numbness, and pain in the extremities.
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