When assessing an adult client experiencing diarrhea, the nurse notes a round "moon" face, a buffalo hump at the nape of the neck, and a velvety discoloration around the neck. What is the possible cause of these signs?
Bell's palsy
Myxedema
Cushing's syndrome
Scleroderma
The Correct Answer is C
A. Bell's palsy: Bell's palsy is characterized by sudden, unilateral facial weakness or paralysis. It does not cause the specific physical signs described in the question, such as a "moon" face, buffalo hump, or velvety discoloration around the neck.
B. Myxedema: Myxedema is associated with severe hypothyroidism and can lead to symptoms such as facial swelling and changes in skin texture, but it does not typically cause a round face, buffalo hump, or velvety neck discoloration. The velvety discoloration around the neck is more characteristic of insulin resistance rather than hypothyroidism.
C. Cushing's syndrome: Cushing's syndrome is caused by excess cortisol and is known for the characteristic signs described. A "moon" face, buffalo hump, and skin changes such as velvety discoloration (often termed "acanthosis nigricans") are hallmark features of this condition. These symptoms align with the body’s response to prolonged high levels of cortisol.
D. Scleroderma: Scleroderma involves skin thickening and tightening, primarily affecting the hands and face, but it does not typically cause a "moon" face, buffalo hump, or velvety neck discoloration. The changes in scleroderma are more related to skin fibrosis and less to the specific physical features listed.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) "Do you feel like crying often?": This question is more focused on assessing mood rather than cognitive function. While mood is an important aspect of mental health, it is not the primary focus in a neurological examination. The goal of a neurological assessment is to evaluate cognitive functions, orientation, and mental status.
B) "Do you have a history of psychotic disorder?": Asking about a history of psychotic disorders might be relevant in some contexts but does not directly assess the current mental status of the client. This question is more about past psychiatric history than current cognitive or neurological function.
C) "Can you tell me about your mood today?": While understanding a client’s mood can be valuable for overall mental health assessment, this question does not specifically assess cognitive functions or orientation. It is important to evaluate mood, but it is not the primary question for assessing neurological status.
D) "Can you tell me where you are right now?": This question is appropriate for assessing orientation, a key component of a neurological examination. Orientation questions assess a person's awareness of their current environment, which helps evaluate their cognitive function and mental status. This is directly relevant to a neurological assessment as it determines if the client is aware of their surroundings, which is crucial for understanding cognitive and neurological function.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) XI: Cranial nerve XI, the spinal accessory nerve, is primarily responsible for motor function, particularly in the muscles involved in shoulder elevation and head rotation. It does not play a role in balance, so focusing on this nerve would not be relevant to the client’s complaint of balance issues.
B) VIII: Cranial nerve VIII, the vestibulocochlear nerve, is directly involved in hearing and balance. It transmits information from the inner ear to the brain regarding head position and motion, which are essential for maintaining balance. The client’s report of spontaneous loss of balance strongly suggests involvement of this nerve, making it the most appropriate focus for additional assessment.
C) IX: Cranial nerve IX, the glossopharyngeal nerve, is primarily associated with taste and the gag reflex. While it is important for swallowing and certain aspects of speech, it does not influence balance, so it would not be the primary concern in this situation.
D) X: Cranial nerve X, the vagus nerve, has extensive functions related to autonomic control of the heart, lungs, and digestive tract, as well as motor and sensory functions in the throat. Although it plays a significant role in the body, it does not directly influence balance, making it less relevant in this context.
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