A nurse is caring for a patient with severe scoliosis.
What potential complications should the nurse monitor for in this patient?
Decreased lung capacity and cardiovascular compromise.
Chronic pain and impaired organ function.
Respiratory difficulties and neurological deficits.
Psychological distress and limited mobility.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale:
Decreased lung capacity and cardiovascular compromise can be potential complications of severe scoliosis, but these are not the primary complications to monitor for in this patient.
The most critical complications in severe scoliosis are related to the spine itself.
Choice B rationale:
Chronic pain and impaired organ function can indeed be potential complications of severe scoliosis, but these are not the primary complications to monitor for.
The question asks for the most critical complications associated with the condition.
Choice C rationale:
Respiratory difficulties and neurological deficits are the most critical complications to monitor for in a patient with severe scoliosis.
Severe spinal curvature can impede lung function and lead to respiratory problems.
Additionally, pressure on the spinal cord can result in neurological deficits.
Choice D rationale:
Psychological distress and limited mobility are potential consequences of severe scoliosis, but they are not the primary complications to monitor for.
The focus should be on the more immediate and life-threatening complications related to the spine, such as respiratory difficulties and neurological deficits.
Questions
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
"Scoliosis results from an exaggerated inward curvature of the lower back." Rationale: This statement is not accurate.
The description provided here more closely aligns with lordosis, not scoliosis.
Scoliosis involves a sideways curvature of the spine, forming an 'S' or 'C' shape, as explained in choice C.
Therefore, choice A is incorrect.
Choice B rationale:
"Scoliosis causes an excessive forward curvature of the upper back." Rationale: This statement is not accurate.
The description provided here more closely resembles kyphosis, not scoliosis.
Kyphosis involves an excessive forward curvature of the upper back, while scoliosis involves a lateral or sideways curvature of the spine.
Therefore, choice B is incorrect.
Choice C rationale:
"Scoliosis involves a sideways curvature of the spine, forming an 'S' or 'C' shape." Rationale: This statement is accurate.
Scoliosis is characterized by a lateral curvature of the spine, resulting in an 'S' or 'C' shape when viewed from the front or back.
This lateral curvature can occur in various parts of the spine and can vary in severity.
Therefore, choice C is correct.
Choice D rationale:
"Scoliosis is primarily caused by poor posture and obesity." Rationale: This statement is not accurate.
While poor posture and obesity may contribute to the progression of scoliosis in some cases, they are not the primary causes of the condition.
Genetic factors and other underlying factors play a more significant role in the development of scoliosis.
Therefore, choice D is incorrect.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The patient with scoliosis typically presents with uneven shoulders and waist.
Scoliosis is characterized by a lateral curvature of the spine, which can cause an asymmetrical appearance of the shoulders and waist.
This curvature may become more noticeable when the patient bends forward or stands upright, as one side of the back may appear more prominent than the other.
Choice B rationale:
"I have a rounded upper back." This statement is not indicative of scoliosis.
A rounded upper back is more characteristic of kyphosis, which involves an excessive forward curvature of the thoracic spine.
Choice C rationale:
"I have an exaggerated inward curve in my lower back." This statement is not associated with scoliosis either.
An exaggerated inward curve in the lower back is a feature of lordosis, not scoliosis.
Choice D rationale:
"I experience difficulty standing upright." While scoliosis can potentially lead to discomfort and difficulty with posture, it is not the primary clinical presentation.
The primary feature of scoliosis is the lateral curvature of the spine and the resulting asymmetry in the shoulders and waist.
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