A nurse is collecting data from a child who has spina bifida occulta. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
Flaccid paralysis of lower extremities
Hip dislocation
Hydrocephalus
Dimple in sacral area
The Correct Answer is D
A. Flaccid paralysis of lower extremities:
Flaccid paralysis refers to a weakness or loss of muscle tone in the affected muscles, leading to decreased or absent movement. This finding is not typically associated with spina bifida occulta. Instead, it is more commonly seen in more severe forms of spina bifida, such as myelomeningocele, where there is significant involvement of the spinal cord and nerves.
B. Hip dislocation:
Hip dislocation can occur in individuals with myelomeningocele due to muscle weakness, abnormal muscle tone, and joint deformities associated with spinal cord defects. However, it is not typically associated with spina bifida occulta, which usually presents with less severe spinal cord involvement.
C. Hydrocephalus:
Hydrocephalus, characterized by the accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid within the brain, is a common complication of myelomeningocele due to disturbances in the flow and absorption of cerebrospinal fluid caused by the spinal defect. It is less commonly associated with spina bifida occulta, which typically involves a less severe spinal cord defect.
D. Dimple in sacral area:
This is the correct choice. A dimple, patch of hair, or birthmark in the lower back or sacral area is a common finding in spina bifida occulta. It occurs due to the incomplete closure of the spinal column during fetal development, leading to a small defect in the vertebrae. This is often a subtle manifestation of spina bifida occulta and may not cause significant symptoms or functional impairment.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. "I will elevate the affected area if possible."
This statement is correct. Elevating the affected area can help reduce swelling and minimize bleeding by promoting venous return. Elevating the limb above the level of the heart can aid in controlling bleeding and is a recommended intervention.
B. "I will apply warm compresses over the site."
This statement is incorrect. Applying warm compresses is generally not recommended for controlling bleeding in hemophilia. Heat can increase blood flow to the area, potentially exacerbating bleeding. Cold compresses or ice packs are typically recommended to help constrict blood vessels and reduce bleeding.
C. "I will have my child rest."
This statement is correct. Resting is an essential component of managing bleeding episodes in children with hemophilia. Physical activity and exertion can increase the risk of injury and bleeding, so it's important for children with hemophilia to avoid strenuous activities during bleeding episodes.
D. "I will promptly mobilize the involved area to relieve pain & decrease bleeding."
Immobilizing the affected area can help control bleeding and reduce pain by minimizing movement. This is also an appropriate response.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. "When I use this technique the medication will not run out of the ear."
This explanation is not entirely accurate. While pulling the auricle down and back may help prevent ear drops from immediately dripping out of the ear, the primary purpose of this technique is to straighten the ear canal, facilitating the passage of the medication into the inner ear region for optimal effectiveness. The prevention of medication runoff is a secondary benefit.
B. “This opens the ear canal, allowing medication to reach the inner ear region.”
This explanation is correct. Pulling the auricle down and back helps to straighten the ear canal, making it easier for the ear drops to enter the ear canal and reach the inner ear where they can effectively treat the condition. This is the main purpose of using this technique.
C. “This is the safest and easiest way to administer this medication.”
While pulling the auricle down and back is a commonly used technique for administering ear drops, describing it as the safest and easiest way may not fully capture its purpose. Safety and ease of administration are important considerations, but the primary rationale for this technique is to facilitate the delivery of medication to the inner ear.
D. “When I use the technique, your child experiences less pain.”
This explanation is inaccurate. Pulling the auricle down and back may not directly reduce pain. The main purpose of this technique is to ensure that the medication reaches the inner ear region for effective treatment. While discomfort during administration may be minimized with proper technique, the primary focus is on medication delivery rather than pain reduction.
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