Musculoskeletal NCLEX Questions with Rationale Related

Review Musculoskeletal NCLEX Questions with Rationale related questions and content

Which assessment finding is the best indication that the client is experiencing secondary complications from the fractured ribs?

  • A. Irregular pulse rate
  • B. The client's affected leg is shorter than her unaffected leg.
  • C. The client's affected leg is shorter than her unaffected leg.
  • D. The client's affected leg is executed leg is externally rotated.
  • E. The client prefers to sit rather than lie flat.
Correct Answer: E

Rationale: Fractured ribs can cause complications like pneumothorax or hemothorax, leading to difficulty breathing when lying flat. The client's preference to sit upright suggests respiratory distress, a secondary complication. Leg findings are unrelated to rib fractures, and irregular pulse is less specific.