Free Pediatric CCRN Practice Questions Related

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A client with lung cancer develops Homer's when the tumor invades the ribs and affects the sympathetic nerve ganglia. When assessing for signs and symptoms of this syndrome, the nurse should note:

  • A. Miosis, partial eyelid ptosis, and anhidrosis on the affected side of the face.
  • B. Chest pain, dyspnea, cough, weight loss, and fever.
  • C. Arm and shoulder pain and atrophy of arm and hand muscles both on the affected side.
  • D. Hoarseness and dysphagia.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Homer's syndrome, also known as Horner's syndrome, is a rare condition that occurs when the sympathetic nerve supply to the eye and face is disrupted. In the case of lung cancer invading the ribs and affecting the sympathetic nerve ganglia, it can lead to Homer's syndrome. The classic triad of symptoms in Homer's syndrome includes miosis (constriction of the pupil), partial eyelid ptosis (drooping of the upper eyelid), and anhidrosis (lack of sweating) on the affected side of the face. These symptoms result from the disruption of sympathetic nerve pathways affecting the pupillary dilator muscle, the Müller muscle responsible for eyelid elevation, and sweat glands on one side of the face. Therefore, when assessing for signs and symptoms of Homer's syndrome in this client, the nurse should focus on looking for these specific manifestations.