NCLEX Questions Musculoskeletal
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Question 1 of 5.
The nurse, caring for the client who had bilateral THRs 2 days ago, determines that the client will need a referral to manage exercises and stairs when at home. The nurse should plan to initiate a referral with which interdisciplinary team member?
A. Occupational therapist
B. Social worker
C. Physical therapist
D. Health care provider
Explanation: C. The physical therapist is the team member with expertise to assist in exercises and ambulating with assistive devices.
Question 2 of 5.
The client with a cervical neck injury as a result of a motor-vehicle accident is complaining of unrelieved pain after administration of a narcotic analgesic. Which alternative method of pain control is an independent nursing action?
A. Medicate the client with a muscle relaxant.
B. Heat alternating with ice applied by a physical therapist.
C. Watch television or listen to music.
D. Discuss surgical options with the health-care provider.
Explanation: Distraction via TV or music is an independent nursing action to manage pain. Muscle relaxants require a prescription, heat/ice involves PT, and surgical discussions are physician-driven.
Question 3 of 5.
The occupational health nurse is teaching a class on the risk factors for developing osteoarthritis (OA). Which is a modifiable risk factor for developing OA?
A. Being overweight.
B. Increasing age.
C. Previous joint damage.
D. Genetic susceptibility.
Explanation: Excess weight increases joint stress, a modifiable risk for OA. Age, prior damage, and genetics are nonmodifiable.
Question 4 of 5.
The HCP prescribes glucosamine and chondroitin for a client diagnosed with OA. What is the scientific rationale for prescribing this medication?
A. It will help decrease the inflammation in the joints.
B. It improves tissue function and retards breakdown of cartilage.
C. It is a potent medication which decreases the client's joint pain.
D. It increases the production of synovial fluid in the joint.
Explanation: Glucosamine and chondroitin support cartilage health, slowing OA progression. They have limited anti-inflammatory effects, are not potent analgesics, and do not increase synovial fluid.
Question 5 of 5.
Which foods should the nurse recommend to a client when discussing sources of dietary calcium?
A. Yogurt and dark-green, leafy vegetables.
B. Oranges and citrus fruits.
C. Bananas and dried apricots.
D. Wheat bread and bran.
Explanation: Yogurt and dark-green leafy vegetables (e.g., kale) are rich in calcium, supporting bone health. Other options have minimal calcium content.
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