A 38-year-old construction worker reports hand weakness and difficulty gripping tools. Examination reveals atrophy of the thenar eminence and decreased sensation in the thumb, index, and middle fingers. What diagnostic test would most likely confirm the diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome?

MRI of the wrist

Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies

Ultrasound of the wrist

X-ray of the wrist

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

A.   MRI of the wrist can help rule out other conditions, but it is not the most specific test for diagnosing carpal tunnel syndrome.
B.   Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies are the gold standard for diagnosing carpal tunnel syndrome. These tests measure the electrical activity of the muscles and the speed of nerve impulses to confirm nerve compression.

C.   Ultrasound of the wrist may be helpful in visualizing the median nerve but is not as definitive as EMG and nerve conduction studies.
D.   X-ray of the wrist would not be useful in diagnosing carpal tunnel syndrome as it does not show soft tissue or nerve involvement.

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Correct Answer is ["D","E"]

Explanation

A. Discoloration of the fingers is not typically associated with carpal tunnel syndrome, which mainly involves nerve compression.
B. Swelling of the entire hand is not a common finding in carpal tunnel syndrome, though localized swelling at the wrist may occur.
C. Pain in the forearm without hand involvement is not typical of carpal tunnel syndrome, which primarily affects the wrist and hand.
D. A positive Phalen's test is indicative of carpal tunnel syndrome, as it reproduces symptoms when the wrist is flexed.
E. A positive Tinel's sign, which involves tapping the median nerve at the wrist to elicit symptoms, is a classic test for carpal tunnel syndrome.
F. Pain relief with wrist extension is common in carpal tunnel syndrome, as extending the wrist relieves pressure on the median nerve.

Correct Answer is ["90"]

Explanation

Calculate the required dosage: 5 mg/kg/hour × 72 kg = 360 mg/hour.

Determine the volume required based on the concentration: 360 mg ÷ (400 mg/100 mL) = 90 mL/hour.
The correct infusion rate is 90 mL/hour for this patient.

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A 38-year-old construction worker reports hand weakness and difficulty gripping tools. Examination reveals atrophy of the thenar eminence and decreased sensation in the thumb, index, and middle fingers. What diagnostic test would most likely confirm the diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is assessing a patient who reports numbness and tingling in the fingers, especially at night. The patient works as a data entry clerk. Which findings support a diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome? (Select All that Apply.)

Correct Answer is ["D","E"]

Explanation

A patient with a severe bacterial infection has been prescribed a continuous IV infusion of an antibiotic at a rate of 5 mg/kg/hour. The patient weighs 72 kg. The pharmacy provides the antibiotic in a concentration of 400 mg/100 mL what will be the infusion rate?

Correct Answer is ["90"]

Explanation

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