A nurse document that a client has a normal pupillary light reflex. The nurse should recognize that this reflex indicates which of the following?
The eye focuses the image in the center of the pupil
Constriction both pupils occurs in response to bright light
The eye focuses the light on the sclera
Dilation of both pupils occurs in response to bright light
The Correct Answer is B
A) The eye focuses the image in the center of the pupil:
This option describes the accommodation reflex, not the pupillary light reflex. The accommodation reflex involves the focusing of the eye to bring an image to the center of the retina, but it does not relate to the constriction of the pupils in response to light. Therefore, it is not the correct answer for describing the pupillary light reflex.
B) Constriction of both pupils occurs in response to bright light:
This is the correct description of the pupillary light reflex. When light is shined into one eye, the normal response is for both pupils (direct and consensual response) to constrict. The pupillary light reflex tests the integrity of the optic nerve (cranial nerve II) and the oculomotor nerve (cranial nerve III), which control the constriction of the pupil in response to light. A normal pupillary light reflex is characterized by the constriction of both pupils when exposed to light.
C) The eye focuses the light on the sclera:
This statement is inaccurate. The sclera is the white part of the eye, and light is focused on the retina (specifically the fovea) for proper vision. This does not relate to the pupillary light reflex, which specifically refers to the constriction of the pupils in response to light.
D) Dilation of both pupils occurs in response to bright light:
This is incorrect. Dilation of the pupils occurs in low light conditions as part of the pupillary dilation reflex (also called the "dark reflex") to allow more light into the eye. However, in response to bright light, the pupils constrict, not dilate. The constriction of the pupils in bright light is the primary characteristic of a normal pupillary light reflex.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Inform the client that his breast enlargement is benign, and normal for an adult male:
Although gynecomastia is common and often benign, it is not always normal for adult males to experience breast enlargement. The condition can be related to various factors such as hormonal imbalances, medications, or underlying health issues. It is important not to reassure the client without further assessment, as gynecomastia may need to be evaluated by a healthcare provider to rule out any medical conditions.
B) Recommend that he alter his diet to include fewer fats and more lean proteins:
While diet can have an impact on overall health, the enlargement of the breasts in males (gynecomastia) is typically not related to fat intake. This recommendation is not appropriate for addressing the root cause of gynecomastia, which often involves hormonal changes rather than diet alone. A dietary change may not resolve the underlying condition, and medical evaluation is warranted.
C) Explain that this condition may be the result of hormonal changes, and recommend that he see his physician:
This is the most appropriate response. Gynecomastia is often caused by hormonal imbalances, particularly an imbalance between estrogen and testosterone. It can occur during puberty, in older age, or as a result of certain medications or medical conditions. The nurse should advise the client to consult a physician for further evaluation and diagnosis, as appropriate treatment depends on the underlying cause.
D) Explain that gynecomastia in men is usually associated with prostate enlargement and recommend that he be screened:
This is not accurate. While prostate issues can affect male hormones, gynecomastia is typically not directly associated with prostate enlargement. The condition is more often linked to hormonal changes involving estrogen or testosterone, not necessarily prostate problems. Recommending prostate screening would not address the underlying cause of gynecomastia and is not the most relevant next step in care.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) Crackles: Crackles are abnormal lung sounds often associated with conditions such as pneumonia, heart failure, or pulmonary edema. They result from fluid in the airways or alveoli. However, crackles are not typically the primary finding in pleuritis, which involves inflammation of the pleura.
B) Stridor: Stridor is a high-pitched wheezing sound caused by an obstruction or narrowing of the upper airway, often seen in conditions such as croup or anaphylaxis. It is not characteristic of pleuritis, which involves inflammation of the pleura and not airway obstruction.
C) Dyspnea: Dyspnea, or difficulty breathing, is a common symptom in many respiratory conditions, including pleuritis. While pleuritis can lead to discomfort during breathing, dyspnea itself is not a sound that would be auscultated. It’s a subjective feeling that would be noted during the client’s history or verbal report, rather than an auscultatory finding.
D) Friction rub: A pleural friction rub is the most expected finding when auscultating a client with pleuritis. This sound occurs when the inflamed pleural layers rub against each other during breathing, producing a grating, scratchy sound. The nurse will typically hear this sound best on inspiration or expiration and it is the hallmark sign of pleuritis. The presence of a friction rub indicates the pleural inflammation characteristic of this condition.
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