Common: Musculoskeletal

Question 1

Mscskl: Compartment syndrome is a complication that can be identified through which nursing assessment?

Answer 1

Neurovascular assessment & Pain assessment

Question 2

Mscskl: An emergency fasciotomy is done to treat which musculoskeletal complication?

Answer 2

Compartment Syndrome

Question 3

Mscskl: When considering best outcomes for a elderly patient who has had orthopedic surgery, what priorities should a nurse consider?

Answer 3

Pain control
Early mobility
Nutrition
Infection prevention
Social support

Question 4

Mscskl: What assessment findings would indicate further investigation of possible post-operative infection?

Answer 4

Elevated temperature
Purulent drainage from incision
Redness around incision
Warm/hot tissue around incision

Question 5

Mscskl: Non-pharmacologic treatments for joint pain related to arthritis include:

Answer 5

Ice or cold packs to decrease inflammation
Elevation of limb to decrease swelling
Weight control
Proper exercise

Question 6

Mscskl: The phenomenon of sensation in a missing limb is referred to as:

Answer 6

Phantom limb sensation/pain

Question 7

Mscskl: Phantom limb pain can be treated with:

Answer 7

Pain medication

Question 8

Mscskl: Explain why people who endure limb amputation may need increased psychosocial support.

Answer 8

Phantom limb pain exemplifies the mind-body connection and can be psychologically disturbing for those who experience it.

Question 9

Mscskl: What activity is likely to exacerbate a herniated lumbar disc and cause increased pain?

Answer 9

Bending or lifting

Question 10

Mscskl: The proper term for a joint replacement is:

Answer 10

Arthroplasty

Question 11

Mscskl: Describe common signs of osteoporosis in older adults

Answer 11

Bones susceptible to fracture
Change in posture (kyphosis)

Question 12

Mscskl: Describe the objective of using skeletal traction such as Buck’s traction and the nursing considerations

Answer 12

Objective:
Immobilize injured limb
Decrease muscle spasms
Reduce risk of further injury

Nursing considerations:
Weights of traction are always free hanging
Ropes are tight
Limb is secure
Skin is assessed regularly
Weights are only removed in the case of a life-threatening event

Question 13

SCI: Low back pain and muscle spasms are commonly seen in lumbar spine injuries. Describe symptoms of cervical spine disc herniation

Answer 13

Numbness & tingling in the arms

Pain in the tops of the shoulders

Neck pain and stiffness

Question 14

Mscskl: Describe fat embolism syndrome and why it is more common in skeletal injuries

Answer 14

Fat embolism syndrome occurs when fat particles from a fractured bone move into the vascular system and cause an occlusion. The symptoms are similar to a thromboembolism

Question 15

SCI: Why should a provider wait to assess the extent of impact from a spinal cord injury?

Answer 15

The extent of spinal cord injuries depends on the LEVEL OF THE INJURY to the spinal cord and the full extent cannot be assessed until swelling and inflammation have subsided.

Question 16

Mscskl: Describe the patient education for preventing hip flexion contractures following amputation

Answer 16

patients should avoid sitting up for prolonged periods of time
patients should be turned to prone position for 30 minutes at a time initially
The hip should be extended as often as possible