Answer to Question 1
Correct Answer: 3, 4, 1, 2
The techniques used to assess the musculoskeletal system are inspection, palpation, and measurement of muscle mass and range of motion (ROM). The patient may stand, sit, or lie down, and the sequence of the exam should be such that the patient does not have frequent position changes.
Answer to Question 2
Correct Answer: 3
With aging, the spinal column shortens and height decreases. Telling the patient that everyone gets shorter as they get older is a nontherapeutic answer to the concern that the patient has and does not address the concern. The second answer dismisses the patient's concern and predicts a height loss that may not be accurate. The fourth answer also dismisses the patient's concern and does not give the nurse the opportunity to educate the patient.