1) A client diagnosed with multiple sclerosis has an acute onset of visual changes, fatigue, and
leg weakness. The client says that the last time this happened, recovery occurred in a few weeks.
Which classification of multiple sclerosis is the client experiencing?
A) Progressive-relapsing
B) Secondary-progressive
C) Relapsing-remitting
D) Primary-progressive correct answers C) Relapsing-remitting
There are four classifications of multiple sclerosis. The client has an exacerbation of symptoms
and has a history of full recovery. This is classified as relapsing-remitting and is the most
common type. Primary-progressive is a steady worsening of the disease with occasional minor
recovery. Secondary-progressive begins as relapsing-remitting but the disease becomes worse
between exacerbation. Progressive-relapsing is rare, with the disease progressing from the onset
with periods of exacerbation.
3) A client with a history of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis is expecting her first child.
What would be indicated for this client?
A) Suggest reproductive counseling, as multiple sclerosis can be genetic.
B) Instruct to expect a period of remission after delivery of the baby.
C) Instruct to expect an exacerbation of symptoms while pregnant.
D) Discuss pain control during labor, as contractions will be severe. correct answers A) Suggest
reproductive counseling, as multiple sclerosis can be genetic.
A definite genetic factor has not been established; however, studies suggest that genetic factors
make some individuals more susceptible to the disorder than others. Reproductive counseling
would be recommended for this client. Pregnancy often brings about remission of multiple
sclerosis, but with a slightly increased relapse rate postpartum. The strength of uterine
contractions in a client with multiple sclerosis is not severe, and because clients often have
lessened sensation, labor may be almost painless.
What is relapsing-remitting MS? correct answers -The most common for of MS (85% of cases).
, -Onset is usually around 20-40 years.
-More common in women
2) A young adult client complains of blurred vision and muscle spasms that come and go over the
past several months. On what information from the client's history should the nurse focus to help
identify this help problem?
A) Family history of Parkinson disease
B) Family history of epilepsy
C) Is an immigrant from Germany
D) Has been depressed correct answers C) Is an immigrant from Germany
Multiple sclerosis is primarily a disease of people of northern European ancestry. The onset of
multiple sclerosis is usually between the ages of 20 and 50, with the peak at age 30. Family
history of epilepsy, Parkinson disease, and depression are important items of the client's history
but do not support a diagnosis of MS.
4) A client with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis tells the nurse that even though the primary
symptoms of exacerbation are leg spasms and blurred vision, the hardest part is trying to get
through the day because of being so tired. Which diagnosis should the nurse identify as a priority
for this client?
A) Fatigue
B) Disturbed Sensory Perception
C) Impaired Physical Mobility
D) Self-Care Deficit correct answers A) Fatigue
What are the early manifestations of Multiple Sclerosis? correct answers -Blurred vision (usually
first sign)
-Optic neuritis (diplopia, blurry, dull grey vision, pain, dark spots, nystagmus)
-Fatigue/weakness
-Paresthesia (numbness, tingling)
-Dizziness/Clumsiness