Timby's Introductory Medical-Surgical Nursing Thirteenth, North American Edition - Introduction to the Musculoskeletal System Related

Review Timby's Introductory Medical-Surgical Nursing Thirteenth, North American Edition - Introduction to the Musculoskeletal System related questions and content

A client is experiencing muscle weakness in the upper extremities. The client raises an arm above the head but then loses the ability to maintain the position. Muscular dystrophy is suspected. Which diagnostic test would evaluate muscle weakness or deterioration?

  • A. A serum calcium test
  • B. An electromyography
  • C. An arthroscopy
  • D. A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: An electromyography tests the electrical potential of muscles and nerves leading to the muscles. It is done to evaluate muscle weakness or deterioration. A serum calcium test evaluates the calcium in the blood. An arthroscopy assesses changes in the joint. An MRI identifies abnormalities in the targeted area.