The nurse is assessing a client with a suspected femur fracture. ...

[NClaborn]

The nurse is assessing a client with a suspected femur fracture. Which assessment finding supports this diagnosis?
 
  1. External rotation of the lower leg and foot.
  2. Internal rotation of the lower leg and foot.
  3. Limited hip internal rotation.
  4. Limited hip external rotation.

Question 2

A pregnant client at 38 weeks gestation is complaining of lower back pain. The nurse notes a slight lordosis and waddling gait in the client. Based on this data, which action by the nurse is the most appropriate?
 
  1. Suggest the client begin bed rest.
  2. Notify the healthcare provider of the findings.
  3. Document the findings as normal.
  4. Ask the client if she has been lifting.

[alvinum]

Answer to Question 1

Correct Answer: 1
External rotation, not internal rotation, of the lower leg and foot is a classic sign of a fractured femur. Limitations of internal and external rotation in the hip signify inflammatory or degenerative joint diseases.

Answer to Question 2

Correct Answer: 3
During pregnancy, estrogen and other hormones soften the cartilage in the pelvis and increase the mobility of the joints. Lordosis, exaggeration of the lumbar spinal curve, and a waddling gait are the result of compensation for the enlarging fetus. The woman's center of gravity shifts forward, and her weight shifts farther back on the lower extremities, causing lower back pain. These are all normal findings during the late stages of pregnancy and do not require bed rest or notification of the healthcare provider. Lordosis and waddling gait in the later stages of pregnancy are not the result of lifting.