The change in electrical charge that occurs in a neuron when a nerve impulse is transmitted is known as the:
- A. action potential
- B. synaptic change
- C. refractory period
- D. ionic charge
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: An action potential is the rapid change in electrical charge that occurs in a neuron when a nerve impulse is transmitted. This process involves the depolarization of the neuron's membrane, where sodium ions rush into the cell, followed by repolarization, where potassium ions exit the cell. The action potential is the basis for neural communication and allows signals to travel quickly along the axon to the synapse, where neurotransmitters are released to communicate with other neurons.
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Which statement describes osteosarcoma?
- A. High rate of local recurrence
- B. Very malignant and metastasizes early
- C. Arises in cancellous ends of long bones
- D. Develops in the medullary cavity of long bones
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Osteosarcoma is highly malignant and metastasizes early.
When is a fat embolism most likely to occur?
- A. 24 to 48 hours following a fractured tibia
- B. 36 to 72 hours following a skull fracture
- C. 4 to 5 days following a fractured femur
- D. 5 to 6 days following a pelvic fracture
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Fat embolism is most common after tibial fractures within 24-48 hours.
What central fiber tract connects forebrain and brain stem structures with the hypothalamus?
- A. cardiac accelerator nerve
- B. medial forebrain bundle
- C. dorsal longitudinal fasciculus
- D. corticospinal tract
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: medial forebrain bundle. This tract connects the forebrain and brain stem structures with the hypothalamus, playing a crucial role in regulating various physiological functions. It is involved in the control of emotions, reward pathways, and feeding behaviors. The other choices are incorrect because: A) cardiac accelerator nerve is involved in regulating heart rate, not connecting forebrain structures with the hypothalamus; C) dorsal longitudinal fasciculus is associated with eye movements and visual processing, not connecting forebrain with the hypothalamus; D) corticospinal tract is responsible for voluntary motor movements, not involved in connecting forebrain structures with the hypothalamus.
Which patient should the nurse assess first after change-of-shift report?
- A. A 42-year-old patient with carpal tunnel syndrome complaining of pain.
- B. A 64-year-old patient with osteoporosis who is waiting for discharge.
- C. A 28-year-old patient with fracture complaining that the cast is tight.
- D. A 56-year-old patient with left leg amputation complaining of phantom pain.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: A tight cast can lead to compartment syndrome, which is a medical emergency.
A 70-year-old patient is admitted after falling from his roof. He has a spinal cord injury at the C7 level. What findings during the assessment identify the presence of spinal shock?
- A. Paraplegia with a flaccid paralysis
- B. Tetraplegia with total sensory loss
- C. Total hemiplegia with sensory and motor loss
- D. Spastic tetraplegia with loss of pressure sensation
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Flaccid paralysis below the level of injury indicates spinal shock.