An acute care nurse receives shift report for a client who has increased intracranial pressure. The nurse is told that the client demonstrates decorticate posturing. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect to observe when assessing the client?

Extension of the arms

External rotation of the lower extremities

Pronation of the hands

Plantar flexion of the legs

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

- A) Extension of the arms is incorrect because decorticate posturing is characterized by flexion into the body, not extension away from it.
- B) External rotation of the lower extremities is not associated with decorticate posturing, which involves movements primarily of the upper extremities.
- C) Pronation of the hands is incorrect as decorticate posturing typically involves flexion of the arms, wrists, and fingers into the chest.
- D) Plantar flexion of the legs is correct because decorticate posturing includes internal rotation and flexion of the arms and wrists, with the legs extended and feet plantar flexed.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. Assess for the presence of chest pain: While chest pain should always be assessed in a comprehensive health history and physical examination, it is not specifically related to multiple sclerosis unless there are concurrent cardiac issues.

B. Inquire about urinary tract problems: Urinary symptoms such as urinary urgency, frequency, hesitancy, or incontinence are common in multiple sclerosis due to neurogenic bladder dysfunction. Therefore, it is essential to inquire about these symptoms to assess the extent of neurological involvement and provide appropriate management.

C. Inspect the skin for rashes or discoloration: While skin manifestations can occur in multiple sclerosis, they are less common and not typically primary concerns during initial assessment. However, if the patient reports skin changes, they should be evaluated accordingly.

D. Ask the patient about any increase in libido: Changes in libido are not typically associated with multiple sclerosis unless they are related to psychological or emotional factors. While sexual dysfunction can occur in MS, it is not the primary focus during the initial assessment unless the patient presents with related concerns.

A. "You may be able to prevent Bell's palsy by doing facial exercises regularly." B. "Medications to treat Bell's palsy work only if started before paralysis onset." C. "Call the doctor if you experience pain or develop herpes lesions near the ear." D. "Prophylactic treatment of herpes with antiviral agents prevents Bell's palsy."

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. "You may be able to prevent Bell's palsy by doing facial exercises regularly." Regular facial exercises have not been proven to prevent Bell's palsy. In fact, excessive facial exercises could potentially exacerbate symptoms in some cases.

B. "Medications to treat Bell's palsy work only if started before paralysis onset." While early treatment with antiviral medications may be beneficial in some cases, it is not accurate to say that medications only work if started before paralysis onset. Treatment can still be effective even after the onset of symptoms, although it may not be as effective as when started early.

C. "Call the doctor if you experience pain or develop herpes lesions near the ear." This is important information because Bell's palsy has been associated with reactivation of the herpes simplex virus. Pain or the development of herpes lesions near the ear could indicate impending or active Bell's palsy, and prompt medical evaluation is necessary.

D. "Prophylactic treatment of herpes with antiviral agents prevents Bell's palsy." While antiviral medications can reduce the risk of herpes simplex virus reactivation, there is no guarantee that prophylactic treatment will prevent Bell's palsy. However, prompt treatment of herpes outbreaks may help reduce the risk.

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An acute care nurse receives shift report for a client who has increased intracranial pressure. The nurse is told that the client demonstrates decorticate posturing. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect to observe when assessing the client?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

What action should the nurse include in completing a health history and physical assessment for a 36-yr-old female patient with possible multiple sclerosis (MS)?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

The nurse identifies a patient with type 1 diabetes and a history of herpes simplex infection as being at risk for Bell's palsy. Which information should the nurse include in teaching the patient?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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