Back Pain Low Back Pain And Vital Signs 2

Question 1

A patient with low back pain has a temperature of 101.8°F (38.8°C). Which condition should be suspected first?

Accepted Answer

Vertebral osteomyelitis or spinal epidural abscess

Answer

Fever combined with back pain is a red flag for spinal infection such as osteomyelitis or epidural abscess.

Question 2

Which vital sign change is most expected in a patient experiencing acute severe low back pain?

Accepted Answer

Elevated heart rate and blood pressure

Answer

Acute pain activates the sympathetic nervous system, raising heart rate and blood pressure.

Question 3

An older adult presents with sudden low back pain, hypotension, and a pulsatile abdominal mass. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

Ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm

Answer

The triad of back pain, hypotension, and a pulsatile abdominal mass is classic for a ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm.

Question 4

Why is pain often called the 'fifth vital sign' in patients with low back pain?

Accepted Answer

Because pain should be assessed routinely alongside standard vital signs

Answer

Pain is assessed as routinely as temperature, pulse, respirations, and blood pressure to guide treatment.

Question 5

A patient with back pain from a suspected kidney infection (pyelonephritis) would most likely show which vital sign pattern?

Accepted Answer

Fever with tachycardia

Answer

Pyelonephritis typically causes fever and a compensatory increase in heart rate.

Back Pain Practice Test