A nurse is working with a nursing student to care for several clients who have musculoskeletal injuries. The nurse should identify which of the following functions of the musculoskeletal system? (Select All that Apply)
Production of potassium
Maintains the body’s form and shape
Provides reflexive responses to injuries
Formation of blood cells through red or yellow marrow
Protection of soft organs
Correct Answer : B,D,E
Choice A Reason: Production of potassium
The musculoskeletal system does not produce potassium. Potassium is an essential mineral that is obtained through the diet and is crucial for various bodily functions, including muscle contraction and nerve function. The musculoskeletal system, however, is not involved in its production.
Choice B Reason: Maintains the body’s form and shape
One of the primary functions of the musculoskeletal system is to maintain the body’s form and shape. The skeletal system provides the framework that supports the body and gives it structure. Muscles attached to the bones help maintain posture and allow for movement, contributing to the overall form and shape of the body.
Choice C Reason: Provides reflexive responses to injuries
While the musculoskeletal system is involved in movement and support, reflexive responses to injuries are primarily mediated by the nervous system3. Reflex actions are automatic responses to stimuli that involve the spinal cord and peripheral nerves, not the musculoskeletal system directly.
Choice D Reason: Formation of blood cells through red or yellow marrow
The formation of blood cells, known as hematopoiesis, occurs in the bone marrow, which is part of the skeletal system. Red bone marrow is responsible for producing red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Yellow bone marrow, primarily composed of fat cells, can also convert to red marrow if necessary to increase blood cell production.
Choice E Reason: Protection of soft organs
The musculoskeletal system plays a crucial role in protecting soft organs. For example, the rib cage protects the heart and lungs, the skull encases the brain, and the vertebrae shield the spinal cord. This protective function is vital for preventing injury to these essential organs.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A Reason: Light sensitivity
Light sensitivity, also known as photophobia, is a common symptom of a ruptured cerebral aneurysm. When an aneurysm ruptures, it can cause bleeding in the brain, leading to increased intracranial pressure and irritation of the meninges, which can result in sensitivity to light.
Choice B Reason: Loss of consciousness
Loss of consciousness is a critical symptom of a ruptured cerebral aneurysm. The sudden increase in intracranial pressure from the bleeding can lead to a rapid decline in the patient’s level of consciousness. This symptom is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention.
Choice C Reason: A dilated pupil
A dilated pupil can indicate increased intracranial pressure or direct pressure on the cranial nerves due to the bleeding from a ruptured aneurysm. This symptom is often associated with severe neurological impairment and requires urgent medical intervention.
Choice D Reason: Visual disturbances
Visual disturbances, such as blurred or double vision, can occur due to the pressure exerted by the bleeding on the optic nerves or other parts of the visual pathway. These disturbances are significant indicators of neurological compromise.
Choice E Reason: Nausea and vomiting
Nausea and vomiting are common symptoms of increased intracranial pressure, which can result from a ruptured cerebral aneurysm. The irritation of the brain’s vomiting center due to the bleeding can lead to these symptoms.
Choice F: Numbness on one side of the face
Numbness on one side of the face is not typically a direct symptom of a ruptured cerebral aneurysm. While neurological deficits can occur, numbness is more commonly associated with other types of strokes or localized nerve damage rather than the acute presentation of a ruptured aneurysm.

Correct Answer is ["A","B","C"]
Explanation
Choice A Reason: Superficial palpation
Superficial palpation is typically performed after auscultation to avoid altering bowel sounds. It involves gently pressing on the abdomen to detect tenderness, masses, or other abnormalities. This step helps in identifying areas that may require deeper examination.
Choice B Reason: Auscultation
Auscultation is performed after inspection and before palpation to listen to bowel sounds without interference. Using a stethoscope, the nurse listens for the presence, frequency, and character of bowel sounds. This step is crucial as palpation can stimulate bowel activity, potentially leading to inaccurate findings.
Choice C Reason: Inspection
Inspection is the first step in an abdominal assessment. The nurse visually examines the abdomen for any abnormalities such as distension, scars, or discoloration. This step provides initial information about the child’s abdominal health and helps guide the subsequent steps of the assessment.
Choice D Reason: Deep palpation
Deep palpation is performed last to assess the deeper structures of the abdomen. This step involves applying more pressure to feel for masses, organ size, and tenderness. It is important to perform this step last to avoid causing discomfort or altering the findings of the other assessment steps.
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