N4 test Musculoskeletal Chapter 61

NCLEX Examination Review Questions Chapter 61
Medsurg book

1. The nurse suspects an ankle sprain when a patient at the urgent care center
A. is hit by another soccer player on the field.
B. has ankle pain after running a 10-mile race.
C. drops a 10-lb weight on his lower leg at the health club.
D. has a twisting injury while running bases during a baseball game.

2. The nurse explains to a patient with a distal tibial fracture returning for a 3-week checkup that healing is indicated by
A. callus formation.
B. complete union of bone.
C. presence of granulation tissue.
D. formation of a hematoma at the fracture site.

3. A patient with a comminuted fracture of the femur is to have an open reduction with internal fixation (ORIF) of the fracture. The nurse explains that ORIF is indicated when
A. a cast would be too large to provide normal mobility.
B. the patient is able to tolerate long-term immobilization
C. adequate alignment cannot be obtained by other methods.
D. the patient cannot tolerate the discomfort of a closed reduction.

4. An indication of a neurovascular problem noted during assessment of the patient with a fracture is
A. exaggeration of extremity movement.
B. petechiae on the head and upper thorax.
C. decreased sensation distal to the fracture site.
D. purulent drainage at the site of an open fracture.

5. A patient with a stable, closed fracture of the humerus caused by trauma to the arm has a temporary splint with bulky padding applied with an elastic bandage. The nurse suspects compartment syndrome and notifies the physician when the patient experiences
A. pain at the fracture site.
B. increasing edema of the limb.
C. muscle spasms of the lower arm.
D. pain when the nurse passively extends the fingers.

6. A patient with symphysis pubis and pelvic rami fractures should be monitored for
A. sudden thirst.
B. changes in urinary output.
C. a palpable lump in the buttock.
D. sudden decrease in blood pressure.

7. During the postoperative period, the patient with an above-the-knee amputation should be instructed that the residual limb should not be routinely elevated because
A. this position reduces the development of phantom pain.
B. the flexed position can promote hip flexion contracture.
C. this position promotes clot formation at the incision site and thigh.
D. unnecessary movement of the extremity can cause wound dehiscence.

8. A patient with rheumatoid arthritis is scheduled for an arthroplasty. The nurse explains that the purpose of this procedure is to
A. fuse a joint and reduce pain.
B. prevent further joint damage.
C. assess the extent of joint damage.
D. replace the joint and improve function.

9. The nurse teaches a patient recovering from a total hip replacement that it is important to avoid
A. sleeping on the abdomen.
B. sitting with the legs crossed.
C. abduction exercises of the affected leg.
D. bearing weight on the affected leg for 6 weeks.