Clinical Scenario:
A nurse is assessing a patient who reports joint pain, morning stiffness, and difficulty gripping objects. The nurse observes bony enlargements at the distal and proximal interphalangeal joints of both hands.
Which of the following findings should the nurse document in the patient's assessment?
Tophi deposits and podagra
Heberden's nodes and Bouchard's nodes
Ulnar deviation and joint subluxation
Swan-neck deformity and Boutonnière deformity
The Correct Answer is B
A. Tophi deposits and podagra: These findings are associated with gout, not osteoarthritis. Tophi are urate crystal deposits, and podagra refers to gout affecting the big toe.
B. Heberden's nodes and Bouchard's nodes: Heberden’s nodes are bony growths at the distal interphalangeal (DIP) joints, while Bouchard’s nodes affect the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joints. These are characteristic of osteoarthritis.
C. Ulnar deviation and joint subluxation: Ulnar deviation and joint subluxation are commonly seen in rheumatoid arthritis, not osteoarthritis.
D. Swan-neck deformity and Boutonnière deformity: These deformities are typical of rheumatoid arthritis, not osteoarthritis.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Assess for the presence of pedal pulses and capillary refill time: Compartment syndrome can lead to diminished or absent pulses, delayed capillary refill, and decreased circulation. Assessing pedal pulses and capillary refill is a crucial step in confirming the diagnosis.
B. Measure the patient’s calf circumference and compare it bilaterally: Measuring limb circumference can help assess swelling, but it is not the most critical assessment in this situation. Capillary refill and pedal pulses provide more immediate information about circulation.
C. Ask the patient to flex and extend the affected foot to assess for range of motion: Limited movement can be a sign of compartment syndrome, but if severe pain is already present, further movement may cause more damage. Assessing circulation should be prioritized first.
D. Check for redness and drainage at the pin sites of the external fixation device: Redness and drainage may indicate infection, but this does not directly assess for compartment syndrome. Circulatory assessment is more urgent.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Apply an antibiotic ointment and reassess in two weeks. SCC is a form of skin cancer and requires biopsy for diagnosis. Simply applying an antibiotic and waiting could delay necessary treatment.
B. Refer the patient to a dermatologist for a biopsy. The priority action for a suspicious lesion that does not heal is to refer the patient for biopsy and further evaluation, as early detection and treatment of SCC are crucial.
C. Reassure the patient that the lesion is benign and monitor for changes. SCC can be aggressive if untreated, and assuming benignity without biopsy could result in delayed diagnosis and worsening prognosis.
D. Educate the patient on proper wound care and sun protection. While wound care and sun protection are important, the priority is obtaining a definitive diagnosis through biopsy.
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