Musculoskeletal Function and Assessment

The skeletal and muscular systems can be considered as one system because together they move the body. The skeleton is the framework of the body to which the voluntary muscles are attached

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The only role of the skeletal system is movement.

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Myelography is usually reserved for patients unable to have a computed tomography scan or magnetic resonance imaging, or for complicated spinal surgery revisions.

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An important function of the muscular system is to aid in the return of blood from the legs through muscular compression on the leg veins.

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Ultrasounds are used to detect osteomyelitis (bone infection), soft tissue disorders, traumatic joint injuries, and surgical hardware placement.

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An arthroscope allows the surgeon to directly visualize a muscle. The muscles around he knee and shoulder are most often evaluated.

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The nurse is caring for a patient who has undergone a right knee arthroscopy. Two hours after the procedure, the patient’s right pedal pulse is diminished compared with the previous assessment. What action should the nurse take?

• Take vital signs.

• Notify the surgeon.

• Perform neurovascular assessment in 30 minutes.

• Change the dressing and rewrap the elastic wrap.

A patient is scheduled for magnetic resonance imaging of the pelvis. Which of the following actions would the nurse take if during data collection it was revealed that the patient had had a previous surgery for heart problems?

• Ask if there is any metal in the patient’s body.

• Obtain an order for a chest x-ray

• Cancel the magnetic resonance imaging.

• Inform the physician.

The nurse is caring for a patient with a fractured left leg. Which of the following findings during a neurovascular assessment of the lower extremities would the nurse recognize as a priority to report to the health care provider?

• Strong bilateral left leg post tibial pulse

• Right foot capillary refill less than 2 seconds

• Bilateral dorsal flexion

• Pallor of the left leg

The nurse is assigned to care for a patient who has been diagnosed with a musculoskeletal disease that causes decreased bone density. Which data collection questions are most appropriate by the nurse? Select all that apply.

• “Do you have any broken bones?”

• “Do you exercise regularly?”

• “What forms of physical activity are you able to participate in?”

• "Does your spouse have bone problems?”

• “What is typically included in your daily diet?”