A mother brings her daughter to the clinic after noticing the ...

[Ebrown]

A mother brings her daughter to the clinic after noticing the child's new swimsuit fits baggily on one side of her bottom and the child's right thigh looks quite odd compared to the other one.
 
  Which assessment question would provide the nurse the most important information?
  A.
  Do her joints dislocate easily?
  B.
  Does she fatigue easily?
  C.
  Has your child been limping?
  D.
  When did you see her in a swimsuit last?

Question 2

A parent calls the clinic to report that his child's cast seems to be looser than it was yesterday. Which instruction is most appropriate for the nurse to provide to the parent?
 
  A.
  Bring your child in so we can evaluate the cast.
  B.
  If the cast is loose, circulation won't be compromised.
  C.
  Pad the top of the cast with a small towel so it fits.
  D.
  This is not unusual; just keep your next appointment.

[taylorsonier]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
The mother seems to have noticed thigh and buttock muscle wasting, which are signs of Legg-Calv-Perthes disease. Other signs and symptoms include hip or knee soreness or stiffness, pain that increases with activity and decreases with rest, a painful limp, joint dysfunction, and limited ROM. Asking about a limp would be the most important question, as it is specific to this disease process.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
Parents should be instructed to take their child to a health-care provider if a cast appears loose, damaged, or soft. The other answers are not appropriate.