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 D

Explanation

A. This may involve using a stethoscope to auscultate the apical pulse, as it might be more easily heard than felt, especially in individuals with significant muscle mass or other anatomical variations. This approach ensures that a thorough cardiac assessment is conducted.
B. Dimming the lights would not impact the ability to palpate or auscultate the apical pulse. Lighting adjustments are generally more relevant for visual examinations rather than for palpation or auscultation of heart sounds. This action would not address the issue of locating the apical pulse.
C. While steroid use can affect cardiovascular health, such as potentially causing changes in heart size or function, questioning the client about steroid use is not the immediate priority if the apical pulse cannot be palpated. The priority should be to ensure a correct assessment and use proper techniques to locate the pulse.
D. Positioning the client in high Fowler's position (sitting up at a 60-90 degree angle) can help in various cardiac assessments and might make it easier to detect the apical pulse, especially if the client has a high muscle mass. This position can improve access to the chest and potentially facilitate better auscultation of heart sounds.

A. Place the client in a standing position, leaning over the exam bed for inspection. B. Determine if the client uses any over-the-counter preparations for hemorrhoids. C. Position client in left lateral position to inspect perianal area for fissures or sacs. D. Ask the client how long she has experienced discomfort related to hemorrhoids.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. A standing position leaning over the exam bed may not provide the best view or allow for thorough examination of the perianal area. This position is less commonly used and may not be ideal for a focused assessment of hemorrhoids.
B. Finding out if the client uses over-the-counter preparations for hemorrhoids provides useful information about the management and treatment approach being used. However, while this information is valuable, it does not directly involve the physical assessment of the hemorrhoids themselves.
C. The left lateral position (also known as the Sims' position) is commonly used for the examination of the perianal area. It provides optimal access for visual inspection of hemorrhoids, fissures, or other abnormalities in the anal region. This position allows the nurse to examine the area more thoroughly and comfortably, making it the most appropriate choice for a focused assessment of hemorrhoids.

D. Asking about the duration of discomfort provides valuable information about the history and progression of the condition. Understanding how long the client has been experiencing symptoms can help in assessing the chronicity and possible treatment history of the hemorrhoids.

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

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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