During a routine health screening of an adult female, the nurse notes several changes that have occurred over the past year. Which change indicates the need for a bone density screening?

15 lb (6.8 kg) weight loss.

Diminished appetite.

Decreased height.

Lower body mass index (BMI)

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

A.   Significant weight loss can be a concern for overall health and may be related to various conditions, including nutritional deficiencies. However, weight loss alone does not specifically indicate the need for bone density screening. It may be a factor in a broader health assessment but is not a direct indicator for bone density measurement.
B.   A diminished appetite can affect nutritional intake, which in turn may impact bone health over time. However, diminished appetite itself does not directly suggest a need for a bone density screening unless it leads to significant weight loss or is part of a broader concern about nutritional status affecting bone health.
C.   Decreased height is a key indicator that may suggest osteoporosis or significant bone loss. This can be due to vertebral compression fractures, which are common in individuals with osteoporosis. A reduction in height over time can be a direct sign that warrants a bone density screening to assess bone health and risk for fractures.
D.   A lower BMI can be associated with lower bone mass and increased risk for osteoporosis, particularly in individuals who are underweight. However, while a low BMI can be a risk factor for osteoporosis, it is not as specific as decreased height for prompting a bone density screening.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. Shaking the client and calling their name is generally used to assess responsiveness in clients who are not deeply unconscious but may be drowsy or semi-conscious. However, in clients with a marked reduction in LOC, this approach might not be effective because it does not provide sufficient stimulation to elicit a response from someone with significantly diminished consciousness.
B. Applying firm pressure to the center of the sternum (sternal rub) is an effective method for assessing a client's response to painful stimuli, especially when there is a marked reduction in LOC. This technique involves using the knuckles to rub or press firmly on the sternum, which provides a strong and potentially painful stimulus to evaluate the client's responsiveness.
C. Aromatic spirits of peppermint are used to stimulate a client's sense of smell but are not effective for assessing response to painful stimuli. This method is more suitable for clients who are semi-conscious and may respond to sensory stimulation but does not provide the level of stimulation needed for assessing deep unconsciousness.
D. Running a pointed object up the sole of the foot is a method used to test the plantar reflex (Babinski reflex) and is not typically used to assess a response to painful stimuli. This method might be useful in neurological assessments but does not provide sufficient stimulation to assess responsiveness in a client with a marked reduction in LOC.

A. A 24 hour diet history. B. Status of current appetite. C. History of a recent weight loss. D. Condition of hair, nails, and skin.

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. While a 24-hour diet history can provide valuable information about a person's dietary intake, it may not accurately reflect their long-term nutritional habits. Additionally, some individuals may underreport or overreport their food intake.
B. A person's current appetite can be affected by various factors, including illness, medication, and emotional state. It may not be a reliable indicator of long-term nutritional status.
C. While weight loss can be a sign of nutritional problems, it is not always indicative of a deficiency. Other factors, such as increased physical activity or illness, can also contribute to weight loss.
D. The condition of hair, nails, and skin can provide valuable clues about a person's nutritional status.
For example, dry, brittle hair and nails, as well as pale or scaly skin, can be signs of nutrient deficiencies such as iron, vitamin B12, or protein deficiency. These visible signs can be more indicative of long-term nutritional deficiencies than other factors.

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During a routine health screening of an adult female, the nurse notes several changes that have occurred over the past year. Which change indicates the need for a bone density screening?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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