A nurse is assisting with the care of a client who has hypocalcemia. For which of the following signs should the nurse monitor?
Kernig's sign
Brudzinski's sign
Chvostek's sign
Cullen's sign
The Correct Answer is C
(A) Kernig’s sign: Kernig’s sign is a clinical sign in which severe stiffness of the hamstrings causes an inability to straighten the leg when the hip is flexed to 90 degrees. It is commonly associated with meningitis, not hypocalcemia.
(B) Brudzinski’s sign: Brudzinski’s sign is a symptom of meningitis. It is not associated with hypocalcemia.
(C) Chvostek’s sign: This is the most appropriate answer. Chvostek’s sign is a clinical sign of existing nerve hyperexcitability (tetany) seen in hypocalcemia. It refers to an abnormal reaction to the stimulation of the facial nerve.
(D) Cullen’s sign: Cullen’s sign is a medical term referring to superficial edema and bruising in the subcutaneous fatty tissue around the umbilicus. It is not associated with hypocalcemia.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Answer: C. Respiratory acidosis
Rationale:
A) Metabolic acidosis: This occurs when there is an excess of acid in the body or a loss of bicarbonate, often due to conditions such as renal failure or severe diarrhea. In chronic bronchitis, the primary issue is related to respiratory function rather than metabolic disturbances.
B) Respiratory alkalosis: This condition results from hyperventilation, leading to excessive loss of carbon dioxide. It is unlikely in a client with chronic bronchitis, who typically experiences difficulty in exhaling fully rather than hyperventilating.
C) Respiratory acidosis: In chronic bronchitis, airflow obstruction and reduced gas exchange can lead to carbon dioxide retention, resulting in respiratory acidosis. Symptoms like dyspnea and increased work of breathing support this imbalance, as the body is unable to adequately expel carbon dioxide.
D) Metabolic alkalosis: This imbalance results from excessive bicarbonate or loss of hydrogen ions, often related to prolonged vomiting or diuretics. It is not characteristic of chronic bronchitis, where the primary concern is respiratory function rather than metabolic processes.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
(A) Document the rhythm as normal: Asystole is a serious condition characterized by a flatline ECG, indicating no electrical activity in the heart. It is not a normal rhythm and requires immediate intervention.
(B) Start cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR): This is the most appropriate initial action. Asystole is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate intervention. The first step should be to start CPR and call for help.
(c) Prepare the patient for cardioversion: Cardioversion is typically used to treat conditions where the heart is beating irregularly (arrhythmias), but not when there is no electrical activity at all (asystole).
(D) Prepare to administer atropine: Atropine is sometimes used in the treatment of bradycardia (slow heart rate), not asystole. In the case of asystole, epinephrine is more commonly administered during resuscitation efforts.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.