Musculoskeletal Care Flashcards
7 cards from real MSNCB practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Musculoskeletal Care flashcards as text
When assessing capillary refill in a casted extremity, which finding requires the nurse to contact the provider?
Answer: Refill in 4 seconds with pallor
Capillary refill greater than 3 seconds with pallor indicates compromised arterial circulation and possible neurovascular compromise.
A patient with osteoporosis is prescribed alendronate (Fosamax). Which teaching point is essential?
Answer: Remain upright for at least 30 minutes after taking the medication
Bisphosphonates must be taken with plain water on an empty stomach, and the patient must remain upright for 30 minutes to prevent esophageal erosion.
Which clinical manifestation differentiates osteomyelitis from a simple soft tissue infection?
Answer: Persistent bone pain with point tenderness and elevated ESR/CRP
Osteomyelitis typically presents with bone point tenderness, marked elevation of inflammatory markers (ESR, CRP), and often a positive bone scan.
A patient with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is started on methotrexate. Which laboratory monitoring is required?
Answer: Liver function tests and complete blood count regularly
Methotrexate is hepatotoxic and myelosuppressive; LFTs and CBC must be monitored regularly to detect toxicity.
A patient returns from the OR after open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) of the radius. What is the priority neurovascular assessment?
Answer: Check pulses, sensation, and movement of the fingers distal to the injury
Neurovascular assessment distal to a fracture or surgical site detects early compartment syndrome or vascular injury.
The nurse notes fat globules in the urine of a patient with a long bone fracture. This finding is associated with:
Answer: Fat embolism syndrome
Lipuria (fat in urine) along with petechiae and neurological changes are classic signs of fat embolism syndrome after long bone fractures.
A nurse is educating a patient on crutch walking using the three-point gait. Which statement by the patient indicates correct understanding?
Answer: I will move both crutches and my injured leg together, then step through with my good leg
In the three-point gait, both crutches and the non-weight-bearing limb advance together, then the good leg follows.