The nurse is concerned that a patient with a spinal cord tumor is developing syringomyelia. What did the nurse assess to make this clinical decision?
Select all that apply.
1. pain
2. spasticity
3. numbness
4. leg weakness
5. cool extremities
Correct Answer: 1, 2, 4
Syringomyelia is a complication of spinal cord tumors involving formation of a fluid-filled cystic cavity in the central intramedullary gray matter and causing pain, motor weakness, and spasticity. Syringomyelia does not cause numbness or cool extremities.
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A patient is admitted to the emergency department after a near-drowning accident. The patient dove head-first into shallow water and has a high blood-alcohol level. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation was used at the scene. The patient is awake and alert
Considering the mechanism of injury, what is the highest nursing priority? A) Check vital signs often B) Obtain an order for radiography studies C) Monitor pulse oximetry closely D) Provide cervical spine stability
A patient at risk of developing deep vein thrombosis has been prescribed warfarin sodium (Coumadin) to be taken daily. The patient also complains of occasional pain to the legs. The nurse should instruct the patient to:
A) Monitor blood pressure weekly. B) Observe for signs and symptoms of infection. C) Report for regular blood studies of international normalized ratio (INR) levels. D) Use aspirin for the pain.
In a research paper on moral therapy, a nurse wants to examine how the diagnoses in this method of treating mental illness differ from current diagnoses. What are some of the diagnoses she should consider related to the use of moral therapy?
Select all that apply. 1. Ill health 2. Binge eating 3. Pecuniary losses 4. Family affliction 5. Jealousy and pride
Which of the following nursing interventions helps avoid intraoperative complications, reduce cerebral edema, and prevent postoperative vomiting?
A) Restrict fluids before surgery. C) Administer preoperative sedation. B) Administer prescribed medications. D) Administer an osmotic diuretic.