A nurse is caring for a client who is being evaluated for multiple sclerosis. Which of the following tests should the nurse anticipate the provider will order to assist with diagnosis?
Myelogram
Brain natriuretic peptide
Troponin level
Lumbar puncture
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A Reason:
Myelogram is not appropriate. This imaging test involves injecting contrast dye into the spinal canal to visualize the spinal cord and nerve roots. While it may help identify certain spinal cord abnormalities, it is not typically used as a primary diagnostic tool for multiple sclerosis.
Choice B Reason:
Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) is not appropriate. This blood test measures the level of BNP, a hormone produced by the heart, which can be elevated in conditions such as heart failure. It is not used in the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis.
Choice C Reason:
Troponin level is not appropriate. Troponin is a protein released into the bloodstream during a heart attack or other heart-related conditions. This test is used to diagnose heart muscle damage and is not relevant to the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis.
Choice D Reason:
Lumbar puncture is appropriate. Also known as a spinal tap, a lumbar puncture involves collecting cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from the spinal canal for analysis. In the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis, analysis of CSF can help identify certain abnormalities, such as an elevated level of immunoglobulin G (IgG) or the presence of oligoclonal bands, which are often indicative of inflammation in the central nervous system. Therefore, a lumbar puncture is commonly ordered to assist with the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Sexual intercourse is correct. Stimulation of the genitalia or other areas below the level of injury can trigger autonomic dysreflexia in individuals with spinal cord injuries.
Choice B Reason:
Tight clothing is correct. Any form of tight or restrictive clothing, including belts or waistbands, can stimulate the body below the level of injury and trigger autonomic dysreflexia.
Choice C Reason:
Nausea is incorrect. While nausea itself is not a common trigger for autonomic dysreflexia, it may occur as a result of the condition. Autonomic dysreflexia can cause a variety of symptoms, including nausea, due to the sudden increase in blood pressure.
Choice D Reason:
Surgery below the level of injury is correct. Surgical procedures performed below the level of the spinal cord injury can lead to stimulation of the body below the injury site, triggering autonomic dysreflexia.
Choice E Reason:
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) is correct. Infections of the urinary tract, especially those involving the bladder or urethra, can stimulate the body below the level of injury, leading to autonomic dysreflexia.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
MS hug is appropriate. The "MS hug" is a colloquial term used to describe a sensation of tightness, pressure, or squeezing around the torso or chest area experienced by some individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS). It is caused by spasms or contractions of the intercostal muscles (muscles between the ribs) or the diaphragm due to lesions in the spinal cord disrupting nerve signals. This sensation can be uncomfortable or painful for the individual.
Choice B Reason:
Lhermitte's sign is inappropriate. Lhermitte's sign is a common symptom experienced by individuals with MS but it presents differently. It is characterized by an electric shock-like sensation that radiates down the spine and into the limbs, typically triggered by flexing the neck forward. It is caused by damage to the spinal cord's myelin sheath, leading to abnormal nerve signal transmission.
Choice C Reason:
Paroxysmal spasms is inappropriate. Paroxysmal spasms are sudden, involuntary muscle contractions or jerking movements that can occur in various parts of the body. While spasms are common in MS, they are not specifically associated with the sensation of tightness around the torso as described in the scenario.
Choice D Reason:
Trigeminal neuralgia is inappropriate. Trigeminal neuralgia is a condition characterized by sudden, severe facial pain often described as stabbing or electric shock-like. It is caused by irritation or damage to the trigeminal nerve, which is responsible for facial sensation. While individuals with MS may experience trigeminal neuralgia, it typically does not present with a tightening feeling around the torso.
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