Which condition or symptom is most common in clients with a herniated cervical disc?

Stiff neck and shoulder pain

Cauda equina syndrome

Changes in knee and ankle reflexes

Sciatica

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

A) Stiff neck and shoulder pain: This symptom is very common in clients with a herniated cervical disc. The herniation can lead to irritation or compression of nearby nerves, resulting in localized pain in the neck and shoulder region. Clients often report this discomfort as one of their primary concerns.

B) Cauda equina syndrome: This serious condition arises from compression of the cauda equina, which occurs in the lower lumbar region of the spine, not the cervical area. Therefore, it is not a typical symptom of a cervical disc herniation.

C) Changes in knee and ankle reflexes: These changes are more associated with lumbar spine issues. While cervical disc problems can affect reflexes, they typically do not present as changes in lower limb reflexes, which are primarily linked to lower back conditions.

D) Sciatica: This term usually refers to pain that radiates down the leg due to compression of the sciatic nerve, often associated with lumbar disc herniation. It is not a common symptom of cervical disc herniation, which affects the neck and upper extremities.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A) This would indicate pitting edema: Tenting is not indicative of pitting edema, which is characterized by a depression left in the skin after pressure is applied. Tenting specifically refers to the skin's elasticity and is assessed by pinching the skin, observing how quickly it returns to its normal position.

B) This may indicate dehydration, but might not be reliable in an older adult: Tenting is often a sign of dehydration, as it reflects decreased skin elasticity. However, in elderly individuals, skin changes due to aging (like reduced elasticity and moisture) may make this assessment less reliable. Factors such as medications, health status, and overall skin integrity can also influence this observation, making it necessary to consider other indicators of hydration.
C) This means the client is well hydrated: Tenting does not indicate adequate hydration. In fact, it typically suggests the opposite, as well-hydrated skin should return to normal quickly after being pinched.

D) This indicates peripheral neuropathy: While peripheral neuropathy can affect skin and tissue integrity, tenting specifically relates to skin turgor and elasticity rather than nerve function. Tenting is not a direct indicator of neuropathy; other assessments would be needed to evaluate nerve health.

A. Lordosis B. Scoliosis C. Kyphosis D. Normal curve

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A) Lordosis: This term specifically refers to an exaggerated inward curvature of the spine, particularly in the cervical or lumbar regions. When the nurse observes an exaggerated cervical curve, lordosis is the correct term to use for documentation, indicating a deviation from the normal spinal alignment.

B) Scoliosis: This condition is characterized by an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine. It does not apply to the observation of an exaggerated cervical curve and would not be appropriate for this finding.

C) Kyphosis: This term denotes an excessive outward curvature of the thoracic spine, often leading to a hunchback appearance. Since the assessment focuses on the cervical region, kyphosis would not accurately describe an exaggerated cervical curve.

D) Normal curve: This term refers to the expected, healthy curvature of the spine. Documenting an exaggerated curve as "normal" would be misleading and does not accurately reflect the observed condition. The nurse should document the finding as lordosis to convey the specific abnormality noted.

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Which condition or symptom is most common in clients with a herniated cervical disc?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

When assessing the skin of an elderly client, the nurse notes tenting. The nurse understands what about this assessment?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

The nurse notes an exaggerated cervical curve while inspecting the spine of a client. Which term will the nurse use when documenting this finding in the medical record?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

The nurse is educating a group of women about breast health. Which statement by the nurse accurately reflects the current American Cancer Society breast cancer screening guidelines?

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