The nurse assesses a client who comes to the clinic with neck stiffness and discomfort. Which finding of the cervical spine should the nurse inquire further about lifestyle habits?

Inspection of head and neck is observed in a straight alignment without lateral curves.

Evaluation of cranial nerve XI reveals flexion is maintained against full resistance.

Observation of cervical range of motion reveals flexion and extension is 25 degrees.

Palpation of the spinous processes and surrounding muscles are non-tender.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

A) Inspection of head and neck is observed in a straight alignment without lateral curves:
This finding describes the normal alignment of the head and neck without lateral curves, indicating proper cervical spine alignment. While it provides information about cervical alignment, it does not directly suggest lifestyle habits that could contribute to neck stiffness and discomfort.

B) Evaluation of cranial nerve XI reveals flexion is maintained against full resistance:
Assessing cranial nerve XI (accessory nerve) involves testing the strength of the trapezius and sternocleidomastoid muscles. While weakness in these muscles may indicate pathology affecting the nerve, it does not specifically relate to lifestyle habits contributing to neck stiffness and discomfort.

C) Observation of cervical range of motion reveals flexion and extension is 25 degrees:
Limited cervical range of motion, such as the restricted flexion and extension described, may suggest musculoskeletal issues or lifestyle habits contributing to neck stiffness and discomfort. Further inquiry into the client's lifestyle habits, such as occupational activities, posture, and exercise habits, would be warranted to identify potential factors contributing to limited cervical range of motion.

D) Palpation of the spinous processes and surrounding muscles are non-tender:
Non-tender palpation of the spinous processes and surrounding muscles suggests the absence of acute musculoskeletal issues or inflammation in the cervical spine region. While it rules out tenderness on palpation, it does not provide specific information about lifestyle habits that could contribute to neck stiffness and discomfort.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A) Papules: Papules are small, raised, solid bumps on the skin that are typically less than 1 centimeter in diameter. They can be a result of various skin conditions, but they are not specifically associated with allergic reactions to insect bites.

B) Excoriation: Excoriation refers to a scratch or abrasion on the surface of the skin, often resulting from scratching due to itching. While this can occur secondary to an allergic reaction, it is not a primary characteristic of such reactions.

C) Wheals: Wheals, also known as hives or urticaria, are raised, red or skin-colored welts on the skin that often itch and can appear rapidly in response to an allergen such as an insect bite. They are a characteristic feature of allergic reactions and are caused by the release of histamine.

D) Fissuring: Fissuring refers to deep cracks or splits in the skin. While it can occur in various skin conditions, it is not a typical manifestation of an allergic reaction to an insect bite.

A. Ambulatory and disoriented to place. B. Wandering behavior with flat affect. C. Appears confused and depressed. D. Demonstrates signs of early dementia.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Answer: B. Wandering behavior with flat affect.

Rationale:

A. Ambulatory and disoriented to place:
This documentation suggests that the client is physically able to walk but does not adequately capture the behavioral aspect of the observation. While the client may be ambulatory, merely stating disorientation does not convey the lack of engagement or emotional response, which is crucial in understanding the client's mental state and overall condition.

B. Wandering behavior with flat affect:
This option accurately reflects the observed behavior of the client. "Wandering behavior" captures the aimless walking, while "flat affect" describes the lack of emotional expression indicated by the blank stare. This documentation provides a clearer picture of the client's mental status, which is vital for further assessment and intervention.

C. Appears confused and depressed:
While confusion may be a relevant aspect of the client's condition, this statement lacks specificity regarding the observed behaviors. Depression cannot be accurately concluded from the blank expression alone, as it may not reflect sadness or mood but rather a cognitive or perceptual issue. More objective descriptors would enhance the clarity of the documentation.

D. Demonstrates signs of early dementia:
This option makes a definitive statement about the possibility of early dementia without sufficient evidence from the observation. While aimless walking and a blank expression can be associated with cognitive decline, diagnosing dementia requires comprehensive assessment and evaluation beyond a single observation. This phrasing could mislead healthcare providers regarding the client’s condition and may lead to premature conclusions about the client’s cognitive health.

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The nurse assesses a client who comes to the clinic with neck stiffness and discomfort. Which finding of the cervical spine should the nurse inquire further about lifestyle habits?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

An adult client exhibits an allergic reaction to an insect bite. The nurse should observe the client's skin for which finding?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

The nurse observes an older adult client walking aimlessly in the hallway and staring straight ahead with a blank expression. How should the nurse enter documentation of this finding in the client's electronic medical record (EMR)?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Rationale:

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