Approach to back pain Quiz: Ace Your Exams

Get ready to dominate your medical and nursing exams by using our dynamic quizzes to elevate your knowledge and increase your confidence. Whether you're gearing up for the USMLE®, COMLEX®, or your next in-class assessment, Osmosis quizzes tackle key topics in pathology, diagnostics, and treatment approaches. By honing in on clinical readiness and decision-making, we make sure the knowledge you gain empowers you both in the classroom and in real-world practice. Jump in and supercharge your exam prep!

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A 29-year-old woman is evaluated in the emergency department for fever and low back pain that radiates down her legs and is associated with numbness and weakness. She states her symptoms began three days ago and have progressively worsened to the point where she can no longer ambulate without assistance. Temperature is 38.5°C (101.3°F), pulse is 104/min, respiratory rate is 16/min, blood pressure is 126/74 mmHg, and oxygen saturation is 99% on room air. The spine is tender to palpation in the lumbar region at L4/L5. The lower extremities have decreased sensation to touch, diminished reflexes, and 3/5 muscle strength. Laboratory studies show a leukocyte count of 13,500/µL (13.5 × 109/L). Blood cultures are collected. Which of the following, if present, would be a risk factor associated with the development of this patient’s current condition? 

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