Skills Lab: Medical-Surgical:
Musculoskeletal (ATI Testing - Learning
System RN 2.0) Questions and Answers |
Latest Version | 2025/2026 | Correct &
Verified
What should the nurse assess first when a client reports pain under a leg cast?
✔✔ Check for neurovascular compromise by assessing pulses, capillary refill, and sensation.
How does the nurse check for proper alignment in a client with Buck’s traction?
✔✔ Ensure the body is in a straight line and weights hang freely without obstruction.
What is a key sign that a client in skeletal traction is developing an infection at the pin site?
✔✔ Presence of purulent drainage and redness at the pin insertion area.
What is the nurse’s immediate action when a client with a new cast complains of severe pressure
and numbness?
✔✔ Elevate the limb and notify the provider immediately for possible compartment syndrome.
1
,What teaching should be given to a client before applying a fiberglass arm cast?
✔✔ The cast will feel warm as it sets and should not be covered while drying.
What is the proper nursing action when performing pin site care on an external fixator?
✔✔ Use sterile technique and clean from the pin outward with chlorhexidine.
What is an expected finding when assessing a client in skeletal traction?
✔✔ Slight muscle spasm and discomfort that is relieved with analgesics.
How should a nurse handle weights in a client receiving continuous traction?
✔✔ Never lift or remove the weights unless prescribed by the provider.
What should be done if a client’s foot appears pale and cold while in a long leg cast?
✔✔ Loosen any tight dressings and notify the provider immediately.
What is the best way to prevent pressure injuries in a client immobilized in bed with a hip
fracture?
✔✔ Reposition the client every 2 hours and inspect bony prominences.
2
, What is the appropriate action before helping a client with a knee replacement ambulate for the
first time?
✔✔ Apply a gait belt and ensure adequate pain control.
What intervention should be implemented to prevent flexion contractures in a client with a
below-the-knee amputation?
✔✔ Encourage lying prone daily and avoid placing pillows under the knee.
What does a positive Homan’s sign in a client with a leg cast suggest?
✔✔ Possible deep vein thrombosis, requiring immediate provider notification.
What indicates successful use of crutches in a client recovering from leg surgery?
✔✔ The client bears weight only as ordered and maintains proper crutch positioning.
How does the nurse check for circulation in a client’s limb in a cast?
✔✔ Assess capillary refill, distal pulses, color, and skin temperature.
3
Musculoskeletal (ATI Testing - Learning
System RN 2.0) Questions and Answers |
Latest Version | 2025/2026 | Correct &
Verified
What should the nurse assess first when a client reports pain under a leg cast?
✔✔ Check for neurovascular compromise by assessing pulses, capillary refill, and sensation.
How does the nurse check for proper alignment in a client with Buck’s traction?
✔✔ Ensure the body is in a straight line and weights hang freely without obstruction.
What is a key sign that a client in skeletal traction is developing an infection at the pin site?
✔✔ Presence of purulent drainage and redness at the pin insertion area.
What is the nurse’s immediate action when a client with a new cast complains of severe pressure
and numbness?
✔✔ Elevate the limb and notify the provider immediately for possible compartment syndrome.
1
,What teaching should be given to a client before applying a fiberglass arm cast?
✔✔ The cast will feel warm as it sets and should not be covered while drying.
What is the proper nursing action when performing pin site care on an external fixator?
✔✔ Use sterile technique and clean from the pin outward with chlorhexidine.
What is an expected finding when assessing a client in skeletal traction?
✔✔ Slight muscle spasm and discomfort that is relieved with analgesics.
How should a nurse handle weights in a client receiving continuous traction?
✔✔ Never lift or remove the weights unless prescribed by the provider.
What should be done if a client’s foot appears pale and cold while in a long leg cast?
✔✔ Loosen any tight dressings and notify the provider immediately.
What is the best way to prevent pressure injuries in a client immobilized in bed with a hip
fracture?
✔✔ Reposition the client every 2 hours and inspect bony prominences.
2
, What is the appropriate action before helping a client with a knee replacement ambulate for the
first time?
✔✔ Apply a gait belt and ensure adequate pain control.
What intervention should be implemented to prevent flexion contractures in a client with a
below-the-knee amputation?
✔✔ Encourage lying prone daily and avoid placing pillows under the knee.
What does a positive Homan’s sign in a client with a leg cast suggest?
✔✔ Possible deep vein thrombosis, requiring immediate provider notification.
What indicates successful use of crutches in a client recovering from leg surgery?
✔✔ The client bears weight only as ordered and maintains proper crutch positioning.
How does the nurse check for circulation in a client’s limb in a cast?
✔✔ Assess capillary refill, distal pulses, color, and skin temperature.
3
