AMSN Musculoskeletal and Orthopedic Conditions

Question 1

A patient returns from surgery for an open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of the femur. The nurse assesses the 5 Ps of neurovascular status. Which finding requires immediate intervention?

Accepted Answer

Pulselessness and pallor of the affected extremity

Answer

Pulselessness and pallor indicate arterial compromise or compartment syndrome, which are surgical emergencies requiring immediate action.

Question 2

A patient with a hip replacement is being repositioned by the nurse. Which action should be AVOIDED to prevent hip dislocation?

Accepted Answer

Adducting the leg across the midline

Answer

After total hip arthroplasty, adduction beyond midline, extreme flexion >90°, and internal rotation are the three movements most likely to cause dislocation.

Question 3

A patient in a long leg cast complains of intense pain when the nurse passively extends the toes. This finding is most consistent with:

Accepted Answer

Compartment syndrome

Answer

Pain with passive stretch of muscles in a casted extremity is a hallmark sign of compartment syndrome, an orthopedic emergency.

Question 4

Which laboratory value is most important to monitor following a total joint replacement due to intraoperative blood loss?

Accepted Answer

Hemoglobin and hematocrit

Answer

Hemoglobin and hematocrit are monitored post-arthroplasty to detect significant blood loss requiring transfusion.

Question 5

A patient with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is prescribed methotrexate. The nurse should teach the patient to avoid:

Accepted Answer

Alcohol and NSAIDs

Answer

Alcohol combined with methotrexate greatly increases hepatotoxicity risk; NSAIDs increase methotrexate toxicity by reducing renal clearance.

AMSN - Academy of Medical-Surgical Nurses Practice Test

AMSN - Academy of Medical-Surgical Nurses Practice Test

AMSN Musculoskeletal and Orthopedic Conditions