A 68-year-old male patient, who underwent bilateral total hip arthroplasty two years ago, has been brought to the emergency department (ED) by ambulance.
He reports that he slipped while putting away groceries at home.
He fell face-forward, hitting his head on the wall and his left shoulder on the floor.
He is experiencing pain mainly in his shoulder, but also in his right knee.
Additionally, he feels nauseated and tired.
Based on this information, which of the following are potential diagnoses?
Rotator cuff injury
Humeral fracture
Concussion
Knee sprain .
Correct Answer : A,B,C,D
Choice A rationale
A rotator cuff injury could be a possibility given the patient’s age and the nature of the fall. The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint, and injuries to this area are common in falls where the shoulder takes the impact.
Choice B rationale
A humeral fracture could also be a possibility. The humerus is the bone in the upper arm, and it can be fractured in falls, especially in older adults who may have weaker bones.
Choice C rationale
A concussion could be a possibility given that the patient hit his head on the wall. Symptoms of a concussion can include nausea and fatigue, which the patient is experiencing.
Choice D rationale
A knee sprain could be a possibility given that the patient is experiencing pain in his right knee. Sprains occur when the ligaments, which are the bands of tissue that hold bones together, are stretched or torn.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
The patient’s history of asthma, previous hospitalizations for asthma-related symptoms, and the current presentation of difficulty breathing and wheezing suggest that she is likely experiencing an asthma exacerbation related to environmental factors. Asthma is a chronic condition that can cause symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness, which the patient is currently experiencing. Environmental factors such as allergens, air pollution, and changes in weather can trigger asthma symptoms.
Choice B rationale
While smoking is a major risk factor for COPD, the patient denies smoking. Additionally, COPD is more common in older adults, and the patient is only 22 years old. Therefore, it is less likely that her symptoms are due to COPD.
Choice C rationale
Pneumonia is typically associated with additional symptoms such as fever, cough with phlegm, and chest pain. The patient’s symptoms do not align with a typical presentation of pneumonia.
Choice D rationale
Tuberculosis is a bacterial infection that typically presents with a chronic cough, weight loss, and night sweats. The patient’s symptoms do not align with a typical presentation of tuberculosis.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
A thick, dry, and dark area on the heels could indicate a more advanced stage of a pressure injury, not the earliest indication.
Choice B rationale
Broken skin without evidence of undermining could also indicate a more advanced stage of a pressure injury.
Choice C rationale
A defined area of persistent redness over a bony prominence is often the earliest sign of a developing pressure injury. This is because these areas are more susceptible to pressure and have less padding to protect them.
Choice D rationale
A superficial sacral pressure injury with defined margins is a more advanced stage of a pressure injury.
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