CMSRN Neurological and Musculoskeletal Care

Question 1

A patient admitted with a suspected stroke has a blood pressure of 185/105 mmHg. Before tPA administration, what is the BP threshold that must be achieved?

Accepted Answer

Less than 185/110 mmHg

Answer

Less than 220/120 mmHg

Answer

Less than 160/90 mmHg

Answer

Less than 140/80 mmHg

Question 2

When assessing level of consciousness using the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS), which three components are evaluated?

Accepted Answer

Eye opening, verbal response, motor response

Answer

Pupil reaction, verbal response, motor response

Answer

Orientation, pupil size, reflex response

Answer

Eye opening, pupillary response, orientation

Question 3

A patient with a traumatic brain injury (TBI) has a GCS of 7 and widening pulse pressure, bradycardia, and irregular respirations. What does this triad indicate?

Accepted Answer

Cushing's triad — sign of increased intracranial pressure

Answer

Septic shock

Answer

Neurogenic shock

Answer

Pulmonary embolism

Question 4

The nurse is caring for a patient with a C5 spinal cord injury. Which complication should be the priority concern?

Accepted Answer

Respiratory compromise due to loss of diaphragmatic function

Answer

Skin breakdown on heels

Answer

Deep vein thrombosis in lower extremities

Answer

Bowel impaction

Question 5

A post-operative patient reports numbness and tingling in the fingers and toes, and has a positive Chvostek's sign. What electrolyte imbalance does the nurse suspect?

Accepted Answer

Hypocalcemia

Answer

Hyperkalemia

Answer

Hypermagnesemia

Answer

Hypernatremia

Question 6

The nurse is positioning a patient following lumbar laminectomy. Which position is most appropriate in the immediate post-operative period?

Accepted Answer

Log-rolling technique to maintain spinal alignment

Answer

Prone with pillows under abdomen

Answer

High Fowler's position

Answer

Trendelenburg to reduce spinal pressure