A patient with intractable or severe nausea and vomiting from an unknown cause should be placed on a bland diet.

Choice A rationale

Fractures caused by disease processes are termed pathological fractures. Diseases like osteoporosis weaken bones, increasing susceptibility to fractures. Conditions like cancer can invade bone tissue, causing structural fragility. Pathological fractures occur without significant trauma, distinguishing them from those caused by external injuries, which require high-impact forces to break otherwise healthy bones. By definition, trauma fractures arise from external forces, while pathological ones involve internal conditions compromising bone integrity.

Choice B rationale

Traumatic fractures stem from external forces, not from disease processes. This assertion neglects the reality of pathological fractures, which result from diseases undermining the bone's natural strength. Healthy bones typically endure significant stress before fracturing, and the absence of disease makes fractures from minimal trauma highly unlikely. This reasoning excludes pathological fractures caused by internal illnesses or conditions weakening bone structures.

Choice A rationale

Loss of sensation to the perineum, buttocks, inner thighs, and back of the legs may indicate cauda equina syndrome, a surgical emergency. This condition involves compression of the spinal nerve roots and can lead to permanent neurological damage if not promptly addressed. Immediate medical intervention is critical.

Choice B rationale

Nausea and delayed voiding postoperatively are common, potentially due to anesthesia effects or limited mobility. While these findings warrant monitoring, they do not typically indicate an urgent issue unless prolonged or associated with other complications.

Choice C rationale

Mild low back pain is expected after lumbar spinal surgery due to manipulation of spinal structures. Pain management with prescribed analgesics and gradual mobilization is part of the standard postoperative care plan, and it does not usually necessitate immediate reporting.

Choice D rationale

A single episode of emesis can result from anesthesia effects or medication. Unless accompanied by persistent vomiting, signs of aspiration, or electrolyte imbalances, isolated emesis is not typically urgent and should be managed with antiemetics if necessary.