Study Tips: NCLEX® QOTD: Brachial plexus injury
Study Tips

NCLEX® QOTD: Brachial plexus injury

Osmosis Team
Oct 2, 2024

Prepare for NCLEX success with today's question on brachial plexus injury. Discover the key diagnostic test used to confirm the extent of the nerve damage.

The nurse in the orthopedic clinic is caring for a patient with a suspected brachial plexus injury. Which diagnostic test should the nurse prepare the patient for to confirm the diagnosis? 

A. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

B. Lumbar puncture

C. Muscle biopsy

D. Dynamometric testing  

Scroll down for the correct answer!

The correct answer to today's NCLEX-RN® Question is...

A. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

Rationale: The nurse should prepare the client for an MRI, which can be used to evaluate the brachial plexus and the extent of the injury.

Major Takeaway

A brachial plexus injury refers to damage to the brachial plexus, a network of nerves that supply motor and sensory innervation to the upper limbs. The diagnosis of brachial plexus injury begins with the client’s history and physical assessment. The assessment can include reflexes, usually absent in those with injury. Additional diagnostic tests include X-rays, computed tomography scan (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which can be used to evaluate the brachial plexus and the extent of the injury.


brachial plexus injury diagnosis


Incorrect answer explanations

B. Lumbar puncture

Rationale: A lumbar puncture is not used to evaluate the brachial plexus but to diagnose infections of the spinal fluid.

C. Muscle biopsy

Rationale: A muscle biopsy is not used to evaluate brachial plexus injury; instead, it is used to diagnose other conditions such muscular infection.

D. Dynamometric testing

Rationale: Dynamometric testing is not used to diagnose brachial plexus injury; instead, it is used to test muscle strength.

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