A nurse in a provider's office is assessing a client who reports shoulder pain. Which of the following findings by the nurse indicates a rotator cuff injury?
Inability to abduct the arm at the shoulder.
Negative drop arm test.
Alteration in the contour of the joint.
A positive Tinel's sign.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason:
The inability to abduct the arm at the shoulder is a classic sign of a rotator cuff injury. The rotator cuff is responsible for stabilizing the shoulder joint and aiding in various movements, including abduction. When there is a tear or significant weakness in the rotator cuff muscles, especially the supraspinatus muscle, the patient may be unable to lift the arm away from the body or may experience pain while doing so.
Choice B reason:
A negative drop arm test would actually indicate that there is no rotator cuff injury. The drop arm test is performed by asking the patient to fully abduct the arm to 90 degrees and then slowly lower it. If the patient can control the motion and lower the arm smoothly, the test is negative. A positive drop arm test, where the patient cannot control the descent of the arm, would suggest a rotator cuff tear.
Choice C reason:
While an alteration in the contour of the joint may indicate some form of shoulder pathology, it is not specific to a rotator cuff injury. Changes in the contour could be due to various conditions, including dislocation, arthritis, or other musculoskeletal disorders.
Choice D reason:
A positive Tinel's sign is used to diagnose nerve compression or nerve damage, not rotator cuff injuries. It is performed by tapping over the course of a nerve to elicit a tingling sensation or pain in the distribution of the nerve. This sign is commonly associated with conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Malignant melanoma typically presents as a mole that changes in color, size, or feel and has irregular edges. It may also itch, ooze, or bleed. A raised, flesh-colored lesion with pearly white borders is not characteristic of malignant melanoma.
Choice B reason:
Basal cell carcinoma often appears as a raised, pearly bump, sometimes with visible blood vessels, which may have a central depression. The description of the lesion as raised, flesh-colored with pearly white borders aligns with the common presentation of basal cell carcinoma.
Choice C reason:
Squamous cell carcinoma usually presents as a firm, red nodule, or a flat lesion with a scaly, crusted surface. The lesion described does not match the typical appearance of squamous cell carcinoma.
Choice D reason:
Actinic keratosis is characterized by rough, scaly patches on sun-exposed areas of the skin, which may be precancerous. They are not typically described as raised, flesh-colored lesions with pearly borders.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Using an antibiotic ointment is not typically recommended as a preventive measure for skin integrity during radiation therapy. Antibiotic ointments are used to treat bacterial infections, and their use should be directed by a healthcare provider if an infection is present or there is skin breakdown.
Choice B reason:
It is important not to apply heat to the area of irradiation as heat can increase skin irritation and the risk of burns in the treated area. Patients undergoing radiation therapy are advised to avoid heat sources, including heating pads, hot water bottles, and direct sunlight, to prevent further damage to the skin.
Choice C reason:
Lubricating the skin with hypoallergenic lotion can help maintain skin integrity by keeping it moisturized. However, it is crucial to use lotions that are free of metals, alcohol, perfumes, and dyes, as these can react with radiation and cause skin irritation. Lotions should be applied after radiation therapy sessions and not immediately before treatment.
Choice D reason:
The instruction not to wash the area of irradiation is incorrect. It is essential to keep the skin clean to reduce the risk of infection. Patients should gently wash the irradiated area with lukewarm water and mild soap, and pat the area dry with a soft towel. They should avoid scrubbing or using harsh soaps that can irritate the skin.
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