The nurse notes documentation that a child with meningitis is exhibiting a positive Kernig's sign. Which observation is a characteristic of this sign?
Petechial and purpuric rashes are noted on the child's trunk
Neck flexion causes adduction and flexion movements of the lower extremities
The child is not able to extend the leg when the thigh is flexed anteriorly at the hip
The child complains of muscle and joint pain
The Correct Answer is C
C. This is characteristic of Kernig's sign. Kernig's sign is elicited when the thigh is flexed at the hip and then attempts to extend the leg at the knee are met with resistance or pain due to inflammation of the meninges.
A. Petechial and purpuric rashes are associated with meningococcal meningitis, not specifically with Kernig's sign. These rashes result from bleeding into the skin and are a characteristic feature of meningococcal sepsis. However, they are not directly related to Kernig's sign.
B. This observation describes Brudzinski's sign, not Kernig's sign. Brudzinski's sign occurs when passive flexion of the neck causes involuntary flexion of the hips and knees due to meningeal irritation.
D. Muscle and joint pain can be symptoms of meningitis, but they are not specific to Kernig's sign. Kernig's sign specifically refers to resistance or pain experienced when attempting to extend the leg at the knee.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B"]
Explanation
A. Humidified oxygen can help improve oxygenation and relieve respiratory distress by maintaining optimal humidity levels in the airways, which can be beneficial, especially in infants with bronchiolitis who may have increased respiratory secretions and airway inflammation.
B. Monitoring respiratory rate and oxygen saturation allows for early detection of respiratory distress and hypoxemia, which are common complications of bronchiolitis. Regular assessment helps guide interventions and ensures timely escalation of care if needed.
C. Restricting fluid intake is not typically indicated for children with bronchiolitis. In fact, maintaining adequate hydration is crucial for children with respiratory illnesses to help thin respiratory secretions and prevent dehydration.
D. Antibiotics are not routinely indicated for the treatment of bronchiolitis caused by viral pathogens. Bronchiolitis is typically caused by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) or other viral infections, for which antibiotics are ineffective.
E. Chest physiotherapy is not routinely recommended for the management of bronchiolitis in infants and children. Bronchiolitis is primarily managed with supportive care measures such as humidified oxygen, hydration, and monitoring for respiratory distress.
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D"]
Explanation
B. Wheezing is a common symptom of asthma exacerbation and can indicate airway obstruction. Wheezing may worsen during an asthma attack, suggesting deterioration in respiratory status.
C. Nasal flaring is a sign of increased respiratory effort and can occur during respiratory distress. In a child with asthma, nasal flaring may indicate worsening airway obstruction and increased work of breathing, suggesting deterioration in respiratory status.
D. Retraction of sternal muscles, also known as intercostal retractions, occurs when the muscles between the ribs are drawn inward during inspiration, indicating increased effort to breathe. Intercostal retractions are a sign of respiratory distress and can occur in children with asthma during exacerbations, particularly when airway obstruction is severe.
A. Warm extremities are not typically indicative of deterioration in respiratory status in a child with asthma. In fact, warm extremities may suggest adequate peripheral perfusion.
E. An oxygen saturation of 95% is within the normal range for most children and may not necessarily indicate deterioration in respiratory status. However, oxygen saturation should be interpreted in conjunction with other clinical signs and symptoms.
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