Musculoskeletal and Neurological Assessment

This set of vocabulary flashcards covers key concepts, risk factors, laboratory tests, and assessment findings for the musculoskeletal and neurological systems based on lecture notes.

Main focus of the musculoskeletal system

Mobility

Components of the musculoskeletal system

Axial Skeleton, Appendicular Skeleton, Joints, Ligaments, Tendons, Cartilage, Bursae, Muscles, and Fascia.

Modifiable Risk Factors for Musculoskeletal Health

Smoking, alcohol abuse, deficient calcium intake, lack of weight bearing exercise, obesity, certain medications, occupation, and joint injury.

Non-Modifiable Risk Factors for Musculoskeletal Health

Age, heritage, gender, body frame, and family history.

Initial Survey Preparation

Provide privacy and warmth, use a measuring tape for asymmetry, obtain weight, and examine painful areas last.

LDH, CK, and AST

Laboratory tests used to identify muscle injury, though AST may also be associated with liver disease.

Alkaline Phosphatase

A laboratory diagnostic used to identify bone injury or wasting.

Uric acid

A laboratory test specifically used to assess for Gouty Arthritis.

ESR, CRP, and Rheumatoid Factor

Diagnostic blood tests used to identify inflammatory processes.

Expected Muscle Strength

A rating of $5/5$ characterized by full, symmetrical strength.

Crepitus

An unexpected joint finding involving popping or noise with movement.

Osteoporosis Risk by Race

Asians are identified as having the greatest risk for this condition.

Main concept for neurological function

Intracranial Regulation

Intracranial Regulation Dependencies

Neurological function depends on perfusion and oxygenation.

Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS)

A behavioral assessment tool measuring Eye Opening Response ($1-4$), Verbal Response ($1-5$), and Motor Response ($1-6$).

First sign of impaired cerebral function

Decreased Level of Consciousness (LOC).

PERRLA

An expected finding during the assessment of cranial nerves ($1-12$).

Nuchal rigidity

A stiff neck that is a meningeal sign and should be reported immediately, especially if accompanied by fever and vomiting.

Elderly Neurological Variations

Decreased mental processing speed, intact long-term memory, reduced stimuli response, and delayed reflexes or decreased sensation.

Cultural Variations in Stroke Risk

African Americans have an increased risk over Caucasians, and Hispanic women have an increased incidence compared to Caucasian women.