Which of the following describes the correct procedure for testing for Kernig's sign?
Rotate the neck to one side while observing the eyes moving to the opposite side.
Passively elevate the leg with extended knee while observing for pain, resistance, or flexion.
Stroke the lateral aspect of the sole of the patient's foot and observe for dorsiflexion of the big toe.
Passively flex the patient's neck forward and observe for hip and knee flexion.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale: Rotating the neck to one side while observing the eyes moving to the opposite side is a procedure for testing for oculocephalic reflex or doll's eye
phenomenon, which indicates brainstem function.
Choice B rationale: This is the correct answer. Kernig's sign is a clinical sign that indicates meningitis, which is an inflammation of the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord. To test for Kernig's sign, the nurse should flex the patient's hip to 90 degrees and then attempt to extend the knee. A positive Kernig's sign is when the patient
experiences pain in the lower back or hamstring, resists knee extension, or involuntarily flexes the opposite leg.
Choice C rationale: Stroking the lateral aspect of the sole of the patient's foot and observing for dorsiflexion of the big toe is a procedure for testing for Babinski's sign, which indicates upper motor neuron lesion or damage.
Choice D rationale: Passively flexing the patient's neck forward and observing for hip and knee flexion is a procedure for testing for Brudzinski's sign, which also indicates meningitis.
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Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale: A client with nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain may have gastroenteritis, food poisoning, or appendicitis, which are not directly related to the eyes.
Choice B rationale: A client with chest tightness and heartburn may have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), angina, or myocardial infarction (MI), which are also not associated with the eyes.
Choice C rationale: A client with facial drooping and left-sided weakness may have a stroke, which is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. An eye examination can help detect signs of stroke, such as pupil asymmetry, visual field defects, or eye movement abnormalities. A stroke can cause permanent brain damage or death if not treated promptly.
Choice D rationale: A client with fatigue, fever, and productive cough may have a respiratory infection, such as pneumonia or tuberculosis, which are unlikely to affect the eyes unless there is a systemic complication.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale: Peptic ulcer disease doesn't typically present with ecchymosis around the umbilicus (Cullen's sign) or significantly elevated amylase and lipase levels.
Choice B rationale: Gastroenteritis is less likely given the specific symptoms, physical exam findings, and laboratory results indicating pancreatic involvement.
Choice C rationale: Acute pancreatitis fits the clinical picture with epigastric pain after heavy alcohol use, persistent nausea/vomiting, tenderness, and elevated amylase and lipase levels.
Choice D rationale: Diverticulitis typically presents with symptoms more localized to the lower abdomen and doesn't cause the characteristic findings seen in this scenario.
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