The female client with an incomplete T6 spinal cord transection asks the nurse for sexual health advice and the possibility of ever conceiving. Which statements by the nurse will be helpful to the client? Select all that apply.
- A. “You need to continue to use contraceptives if you do not wish to have children.”
- B. “Unfortunately, your injury prevents you from being able to conceive children.”
- C. “Because feeling is affected, it is not likely that you will be able to deliver a baby.”
- D. “Sexual intercourse is generally prohibited because it can worsen your condition.”
- E. “You can engage in sexual intimacy, but you may not be able to feel an orgasm.”
Correct Answer: A,E
Rationale: Although the client has an incomplete T6 SCI, the woman is still capable of becoming pregnant. The client with an incomplete T6 SCI is able to get pregnant. Although the client may not feel the onset of labor, she may still be able to deliver the baby vaginally or via cesarean section. Sexual intercourse is allowable and would not worsen the client’s condition. The female may not be able to feel an orgasm. The client may not be able to feel an orgasm after an incomplete T6 SCI.
You may also like to solve these questions
The nurse is caring for the client who is having difficulty walking. Which procedure should the nurse perform to test the cerebellar function of the client?
- A. With the client’s eyes shut, ask whether the touch with a cotton applicator is sharp or dull.
- B. Ask the client to close the eyes, then hold hands with palms up perpendicular to the body.
- C. Ask the client to grasp and squeeze, with each hand at the same time, the hands of the nurse.
- D. Have the client place the hands on the thighs, then quickly turn the palms up and then down.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Detecting sharp or dull touch is a test for peripheral nerve function. Assessing for pronator drift is a test for muscle weakness due to cerebral or brainstem dysfunction. Assessment of hand grasps compares equality of muscle strength bilaterally. Repetitive alternating motion tests the client’s coordination, an indicator of cerebellar function.
The client, diagnosed with an ischemic stroke, is being evaluated for thrombolytic therapy. Which assessment finding should prompt the nurse to withhold thrombolytic therapy?
- A. Brain CT scan results show no bleeding.
- B. Had a serious head injury four weeks ago.
- C. Has a history of type 1 diabetes mellitus.
- D. Neurological deficits started 2 hours ago.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: A negative CT scan is a criterion for administering the thrombolytic therapy. Contraindications to thrombolytic therapy for the client with an ischemic stroke include a serious head injury within the previous 3 months. This would put the client at risk of developing serious bleeding problems, specifically cerebral hemorrhage. History of type 1 DM is not a contraindication for thrombolytic therapy. The onset of neurological deficits within 3 hours is a criterion for administering thrombolytic therapy.
The 28-year-old client is on the rehabilitation unit post spinal cord injury at level T10. Which collaborative team members should participate with the nurse at the case conference? Select all that apply.
- A. Occupational Therapist (OT).
- B. Physical therapist (PT).
- C. Registered dietitian (RD).
- D. Rehabilitation physician.
- E. Social Worker (SW).
- F. Patient care tech (PCT).
Correct Answer: A,B,D,E
Rationale: OT (A) and PT (B) address functional and mobility needs, the physician (D) oversees medical care, and the social worker (E) coordinates resources. Dietitian (C) and PCT (F) are less critical for case conferences.
When assisting the client with activities of daily living (ADLs), which approach is best?
- A. Limit the time for performing ADLs to 30 minutes.
- B. Eliminate whatever tasks the client cannot perform.
- C. Let the client rest between activities.
- D. Perform all of the client's ADLs at this time.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Allowing rest between activities conserves energy and supports the client's independence during an MS exacerbation.
Which instruction is most applicable after symptoms are relieved?
- A. Carry heavy objects away from your center of gravity.
- B. Lift with your knees bent and your back straight.
- C. Create a base of support by keeping your feet together.
- D. Select a soft, spongy mattress for your bed.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Lifting with knees bent and back straight prevents re-injury to the lumbar spine after a herniated disk.