Module 7 Discussion-MSK

Module 7 Discussion MSK Name Institution Course and Code Professor Date Module 7 Discussion MSK Special Considerations in Musculoskeletal Assessment In conducting a comprehensive assessment of a client presenting with joint pain and tenderness in the fingers, nurses must consider both subjective and objective findings. Subjectively, nurses should gather detailed information on the patient's current symptoms and their past musculoskeletal injury and disease history. They should then compare this information to expectations for the patient’s baseline or age group (Ernstmeyer & Christman, 2023). Objectively, nurses should carry out a routine physical exam of the musculoskeletal system to screen for abnormalities and assess function. Here, they should inspect for physical signs such as joint enlargement (Bouchard's and Heberden's nodes) and squaring at the bases of thumbs (carpometacarpal joint involvement). Assessing gait, inspecting the spine, observing range of motion of joints are integral parts of the examination (Ernstmeyer & Christman, 2023). It also includes palpating extremities for tenderness, inspecting extremities and muscles for symmetry and size, and assessing muscle strength. Given the client's occupation as a piano instructor, understanding the repetitive strain and specific demands of her profession is vital for planning nursing care. Interpretation of Findings The findings in the case scenario suggests that the client is likely experiencing osteoarthri...