The nurse documents an abnormal finding from the Babinski reflex as a (the):
toes turning up and spreading
downward curl of the toes
pain in the big toe
big toe bending upward
The Correct Answer is A
A. Toes turning up and spreading:
This description corresponds to the abnormal finding in the Babinski reflex. In a positive Babinski sign, the big toe (hallux) dorsiflexes (turns upward) and the other toes fan out. This response is abnormal in adults but normal in infants up to a certain age.
B. Downward curl of the toes:
This response is typical of the normal plantar reflex, where the toes curl downward (plantar flexion) in response to stimulation of the sole of the foot. It is not indicative of the Babinski reflex.
C. Pain in the big toe:
Pain in the big toe is not a characteristic finding of the Babinski reflex. The Babinski sign is assessed by observing the movement pattern of the toes in response to stimulation, rather than eliciting pain.
D. Big toe bending upward:
The big toe bending upward, or dorsiflexion of the big toe, is a specific component of the positive Babinski sign. However, it is typically accompanied by spreading of the other toes, which is the hallmark feature of the Babinski reflex.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Insert a padded tongue blade into the client's mouth.
This intervention is not recommended. Placing any object, including a padded tongue blade, into the mouth of someone experiencing a seizure poses a risk of injury, such as biting the tongue or breaking teeth. It can also obstruct the airway and increase the risk of aspiration. Therefore, inserting anything into the client's mouth during a seizure is contraindicated.
B. Place a pillow under the client's head.
Placing a pillow under the client's head can help prevent head injury by providing cushioning and support. It can also help maintain the client's airway and reduce the risk of aspiration. Therefore, this intervention is appropriate and helps ensure the client's safety during the seizure.
C. Gently restrain the client's extremities.
Restraining the client's extremities is not recommended during a seizure. It can increase the risk of injury, such as fractures or dislocations, and may exacerbate muscle contractions. It's important to allow the client's movements to occur naturally while taking measures to ensure their safety, such as removing nearby objects and providing a safe environment.
D. Keep the client in a supine position.
It is essential to ensure that the client's head is turned to the side (recovery position) to prevent aspiration and allow for drainage of oral secretions. Additionally, the nurse should remove any nearby objects that could pose a risk of injury during the seizure.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Lie flat:
This option involves instructing the patient to lie flat on their back without elevating their head. Lying flat helps to maintain consistent pressure in the spinal canal, reducing the likelihood of CSF leakage from the puncture site. This position is commonly recommended after a lumbar puncture to prevent or minimize the occurrence of post-lumbar puncture headaches (PLPH).
B. Lie on left side:
This option involves instructing the patient to lie on their left side. While lying on the left side may provide some relief by reducing pressure on the lumbar puncture site, it is not typically recommended immediately after the procedure to prevent PLPH. Lying flat is generally preferred to minimize changes in CSF pressure and reduce the risk of headache.
C. Stay in semi-Fowler position:
The semi-Fowler position involves elevating the head of the bed at a 30-45 degree angle. This position is not typically recommended immediately after a lumbar puncture because it may increase CSF leakage and pressure changes, potentially exacerbating the risk of developing a headache.
D. Ambulate in the room with assistance:
Ambulating shortly after a lumbar puncture is not typically recommended as it may increase the risk of developing a headache. Movement and changes in posture can exacerbate CSF leakage and pressure changes at the puncture site, leading to the development of post-lumbar puncture headaches.
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