The nurse notes documentation that a child with meningitis is exhibiting a positive Kernig's sign. Which observation is a characteristic of this sign?
Petechial and purpuric rashes are noted on the child's trunk
Neck flexion causes adduction and flexion movements of the lower extremities
The child is not able to extend the leg when the thigh is flexed anteriorly at the hip
The child complains of muscle and joint pain
The Correct Answer is C
C. This is characteristic of Kernig's sign. Kernig's sign is elicited when the thigh is flexed at the hip and then attempts to extend the leg at the knee are met with resistance or pain due to inflammation of the meninges.
A. Petechial and purpuric rashes are associated with meningococcal meningitis, not specifically with Kernig's sign. These rashes result from bleeding into the skin and are a characteristic feature of meningococcal sepsis. However, they are not directly related to Kernig's sign.
B. This observation describes Brudzinski's sign, not Kernig's sign. Brudzinski's sign occurs when passive flexion of the neck causes involuntary flexion of the hips and knees due to meningeal irritation.
D. Muscle and joint pain can be symptoms of meningitis, but they are not specific to Kernig's sign. Kernig's sign specifically refers to resistance or pain experienced when attempting to extend the leg at the knee.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["1.5"]
Explanation
Volume= Desired dose/ concentration in mg/ml Concentration per ml= 10mg/ml
Desired dose= 15mg Volume= 15mg/10mg/ml Volume = 1.5ml
Therefore, the nurse should administer 1.5ml of morphine
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
D. The correct action would be to place the client on NPO (Nothing by Mouth) status, option D. This is because a decreased level of consciousness can increase the risk of aspiration.
A. Liver biopsy is not indicated for suspected meningitis with a decreased level of consciousness. Liver biopsy is a procedure used to obtain a sample of liver tissue for diagnostic purposes, typically to evaluate liver function or diagnose liver diseases.
B. A protective environment (option B) is more related to immunocompromised patients. In the case of decreased level of consciousness, preventing aspiration is key.
C. Dorsal recumbent position refers to lying on the back with the knees flexed. While this position may be suitable for certain medical procedures or examinations, it is not specifically indicated for a client with suspected meningitis and a decreased level of consciousness.
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