A nurse observes that decerebrate posturing is a comatose client's response to painful stimuli. Decerebrate posturing as a response to pain indicates:
Dysfunction in the cerebrum.
Dysfunction in the brain stem.
Dysfunction in the spinal column.
Dysfunction in the motor cortex.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale
Dysfunction in the cerebrum would likely result in different types of posturing, such as decorticate posturing, rather than decerebrate. The cerebrum is involved in controlling voluntary motor functions and damage here typically does not lead to decerebrate posturing.
Choice B rationale
Dysfunction in the brain stem results in decerebrate posturing, characterized by rigid extension of the arms and legs, downward pointing of the toes, and backward arching of the head. The brain stem is crucial for controlling basic life functions and its impairment leads to severe motor response issues.
Choice C rationale
Dysfunction in the spinal column typically does not lead to decerebrate posturing but may lead to different types of paralysis or movement issues depending on the location and severity of the damage.
Choice D rationale
Dysfunction in the motor cortex usually leads to abnormalities in voluntary movement, muscle tone, and coordination rather than decerebrate posturing which is more linked to brain stem issues.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Infection is not directly related to weight loss, ill-fitting dentures, or limited fiber intake. The primary risks are more connected to gastrointestinal function rather than infections. While malnutrition can affect immune response, infection risk isn’t the primary concern here.
Choice B rationale
Deficient fluid volume is not a direct consequence of weight loss or dietary habits related to ill-fitting dentures. While fluid intake should be monitored, it is not the most immediate risk associated with these symptoms.
Choice C rationale
Excessive intake of convenience foods might contribute to poor nutritional status and unintended weight loss, but it is not the primary risk. The client's condition more directly influences gastrointestinal health rather than dietary habits.
Choice D rationale
Constipation is a significant risk due to limited intake of high-fiber foods. Fiber is crucial for promoting bowel movements and preventing constipation. Weight loss and ill-fitting dentures may further reduce the client's dietary fiber intake, increasing the likelihood of constipation
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Swallowing involves the glossopharyngeal and vagus nerves, not the trigeminal nerve. Thus, trigeminal neuralgia does not typically affect swallowing.
Choice B rationale
Smelling involves the olfactory nerve (cranial nerve I), not the trigeminal nerve (cranial nerve V). Therefore, trigeminal neuralgia does not affect the sense of smell.
Choice C rationale
Trigeminal neuralgia involves the trigeminal nerve, which is responsible for sensation in the face and motor functions such as biting and chewing. Therefore, chewing can be significantly affected.
Choice D rationale
Tasting involves the facial nerve (cranial nerve VII) and glossopharyngeal nerve (cranial nerve IX), not the trigeminal nerve. Thus, trigeminal neuralgia does not typically affect taste.
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