To assess for muscle atrophy in the legs, which action should the nurse take?

Gently press over each shin and measure indentation.

Use a goniometer to measure and compare the legs.

Compare the appearance of the legs bilaterally.

Observe the client during heel-toe ambulation.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

A.   Pressing over the shins to measure indentation is a technique used to assess for edema, not muscle atrophy. Edema refers to fluid accumulation in the tissues, which can cause an indentation when pressed, whereas muscle atrophy involves a reduction in muscle mass and would not be detected by this method.
B.   A goniometer is a tool used to measure the range of motion of joints, not muscle size. While it can be useful in assessing joint mobility and flexibility, it does not provide information about muscle mass or atrophy.
C.   Comparing the appearance of the legs bilaterally is an appropriate method to assess for muscle atrophy. By visually inspecting and palpating both legs, the nurse can identify differences in muscle bulk and size. Muscle atrophy often presents as noticeable asymmetry between the two legs, with one leg appearing smaller or thinner compared to the other.
D.   Observing the client during heel-toe ambulation can help assess gait and functional mobility, but it is not the most direct method for evaluating muscle atrophy. While gait abnormalities can suggest underlying muscle weakness or atrophy, direct visual and palpation comparison of muscle mass provides a clearer assessment of muscle atrophy.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. Auscultating all lobes of the lungs is an important step in a comprehensive respiratory assessment. It helps the nurse assess the presence and distribution of abnormal breath sounds, such as wheezing, and evaluate the overall condition of the lungs. While this is a crucial part of the assessment process, it is more of a diagnostic step rather than an immediate intervention for managing respiratory distress.
B. Placing the client in a low Fowler's position (45 degrees) can help improve ventilation and comfort, especially if they are experiencing difficulty breathing. However, in the context of audible wheezing and elevated respiratory rate, more immediate interventions to address the underlying issue are typically required.
C. Administering a respiratory aerosol treatment (such as a bronchodilator) is a direct intervention to address wheezing, which is often caused by bronchoconstriction or inflammation. Aerosol treatments can help open the airways and relieve wheezing, making this a priority action for managing the symptoms described.
D. Providing supplemental oxygen can be beneficial if the client is experiencing hypoxia (low blood oxygen levels). However, the need for oxygen should be determined based on the client's oxygen saturation levels and overall clinical picture. While oxygen can support breathing, it does not address the underlying cause of wheezing or the elevated respiratory rate directly.

A. Hold arms up at 90 degrees while arms are pushed downward. B. Extend arms up to 180 degrees beside the ears. C. Alternate both index fingers to touch the tip of nose accurately. D. Extend arms straight out and hold without drifting.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. This maneuver assesses shoulder strength and endurance but is not a direct measure of the normal range of motion. The test involves resistance but does not provide information on the full range of shoulder movement. It might reveal issues with muscle strength or endurance but does not effectively assess ROM.
B. This assessment technique evaluates shoulder flexion, where the client raises their arms straight up beside the ears, which is a key movement to measure in shoulder ROM. It assesses the ability to lift the arms fully overhead, which is an essential component of shoulder range of motion. This technique directly tests the normal ROM for shoulder flexion and abduction.
C. This maneuver tests coordination and proprioception rather than the range of motion. It is a test for the accuracy of movements and neurological function, particularly useful in assessing cerebellar function, but does not directly measure shoulder ROM.
D. This test assesses shoulder strength and stability rather than range of motion. It is useful for evaluating how well the shoulder can maintain a position but does not provide specific information about the range of motion in different directions.

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To assess for muscle atrophy in the legs, which action should the nurse take?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

While assessing a client, the nurse notes an audible expiratory wheeze and a respiratory rate of 30 breaths/minute. Which action should the nurse implement?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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