OCC OCC Neurovascular Assessment & Monitoring 2

Question 1

A patient with a recently applied long leg cast reports numbness of the little toe and the lateral aspect of the foot. Which nerve is most likely compressed?

Accepted Answer

Sural nerve

Answer

Deep peroneal nerve

Answer

Superficial peroneal nerve

Answer

Tibial nerve

Question 2

How frequently should neurovascular checks be performed during the first 24 hours after application of a new cast?

Accepted Answer

Every 1–2 hours

Answer

Every 30 minutes

Answer

Every 4–6 hours

Answer

Once per nursing shift

Question 3

The posterior tibial pulse in a patient with a short leg cast is best assessed by palpating:

Accepted Answer

Behind the medial malleolus

Answer

On the dorsum of the foot between the first and second metatarsals

Answer

Over the lateral malleolus

Answer

At the popliteal fossa

Question 4

Testing motor function of the ulnar nerve is best accomplished by asking the patient to:

Accepted Answer

Abduct the fingers (spread them apart)

Answer

Extend the wrist against resistance

Answer

Oppose the thumb to the index finger

Answer

Flex the elbow against resistance

Question 5

A patient with a short arm cast reports numbness and tingling in the little finger and the medial half of the ring finger. Which nerve is most likely compromised?

Accepted Answer

Ulnar nerve

Answer

Radial nerve

Answer

Median nerve

Answer

Anterior interosseous nerve

Question 6

Cyanosis of the toes in a patient with a lower extremity cast most likely indicates:

Accepted Answer

Venous congestion and impaired venous return

Answer

Arterial occlusion

Answer

Normal post-casting discoloration

Answer

Superficial skin irritation from casting material

Question 7

When assessing the neurological status of a hand in a cast, a patient's inability to make an 'OK' sign (circle between thumb and index finger) suggests compromise of which nerve?

Accepted Answer

Anterior interosseous nerve (branch of median)

Answer

Ulnar nerve

Answer

Radial nerve

Answer

Musculocutaneous nerve