A nurse is assessing a client who has meningitis and notes that when passively flexing the client's neck, there is an involuntary flexion of both legs. Which of the following conditions is the client displaying?
Bradykinesia
Brudzinski's sign
Kernig's sign
Nuchal rigidity
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason : Bradykinesia refers to the slowness of movement and is commonly associated with Parkinson's disease, not meningitis. It is characterized by a gradual loss of spontaneous movement and can affect the ability to initiate and continue movements¹.
Choice B reason : Brudzinski's sign is a clinical sign that suggests meningitis when neck flexion causes reflex flexion of the hips and knees. It occurs due to meningeal irritation caused by spinal cord movement or nerves against the meninges¹. This sign is considered positive when passive flexion of the neck results in reflex flexion of the hips and knees, indicating meningeal irritation².
Choice C reason : Kernig's sign is another clinical sign used to evaluate for meningitis. It involves extending and straightening one knee while the individual lies on their back with their hips and knees bent at a 90-degree angle. A positive Kernig’s sign indicates pain or resistance when the leg is extended, which suggests meningitis³. However, it is not the condition described in the scenario.
Choice D reason : Nuchal rigidity is an inability to flex the neck forward due to rigidity of the neck muscles. While it is a sign of meningitis, it does not involve the involuntary flexion of the legs as described in the scenario. Nuchal rigidity is typically assessed by attempting to flex the patient's neck forward while they are in a supine position⁴.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason : Cleaning dentures in a denture cup is a standard hygiene practice but does not directly address the low WBC count. While maintaining oral hygiene is important, it is not the most critical action related to the client's immunocompromised state⁶.
Choice B reason : Replacing the water in flower vases daily is a good practice to prevent bacterial growth; however, it is recommended to avoid having flowers or plants in the room of an immunocompromised patient due to the risk of exposure to fungi and bacteria⁷.
Choice C reason : Humidifying the room can be beneficial for respiratory comfort, but it must be done with caution in immunocompromised patients. Humidifiers need to be kept clean to prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi, which could be harmful to a patient with a low WBC count⁷.
Choice D reason : Serving cooked fruit with meals is the correct action because cooking fruit can eliminate potential pathogens that the client's compromised immune system may not be able to handle. Raw fruits and vegetables can harbor bacteria and other pathogens, so serving them cooked is a safer option for someone with a low WBC count⁶⁷.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason : The immediate safety of the client is the nurse's primary concern. Assessing the risk for immediate harm is crucial to prevent further abuse and to ensure the client's well-being. This involves evaluating the severity of the situation and the potential for future harm¹.
Choice B reason : While referring the client to a community support group is important for long-term support, it is not the immediate priority when a client reports abuse.
Choice C reason : Implementing a safety plan is a critical step, but it follows the initial assessment of immediate risk. The safety plan will be part of the ongoing support and intervention for the client.
Choice D reason : Instructing the client on how to leave the relationship is an important aspect of empowering the client; however, it is not the first action to take before assessing immediate risk and ensuring the client's safety.
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