A client arrives in the emergency department with an ischemic stroke. What is the priority for the nurse to assess in relation to the administration of tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) as treatment?
Current anticoagulant use
Blood pressure of 160/85 mm Hg
Complete neurologic assessment
Current treatment for client's peptic ulcer disease
The Correct Answer is A
A. Current anticoagulant use is crucial to assess before administering t-PA because combining t-PA with anticoagulants can significantly increase the risk of bleeding complications. It is essential to ensure that the client is not on medications that could interact adversely with t-PA.
B. While blood pressure is important to monitor, it is secondary to assessing anticoagulant use since high blood pressure alone does not contraindicate t-PA administration.
C. A complete neurologic assessment is important for determining the extent of the stroke but is not the immediate priority before administering t-PA.
D. While treatment for peptic ulcer disease is relevant, it is not directly related to the immediate risk factors for t-PA administration compared to anticoagulant use.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Checking the IV site for bleeding is important but should be done more frequently in a client with thrombocytopenia (low platelet count), as bleeding can occur unexpectedly.
B. Administering stool softeners is a key intervention for clients with thrombocytopenia, as it helps to prevent straining during bowel movements, which could cause rectal bleeding due to fragile blood vessels.
C. Checking for proteinuria is not directly related to thrombocytopenia or the risk of bleeding. It is more commonly associated with kidney function monitoring.
D. Obtaining body temperature readings is important for infection monitoring, but it does not directly address the risk associated with a low platelet count, which primarily concerns bleeding.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Assessing for upper extremity injuries is important, but it is not the highest priority in an unconscious client who is at risk for airway obstruction.
B. Suctioning saliva from the client's mouth is the highest priority because an unconscious client is at risk for airway obstruction due to the accumulation of saliva or other secretions. Maintaining a clear airway is essential to prevent aspiration and ensure adequate oxygenation.
C. Monitoring electrolyte levels is important in the overall management of a client with cerebral hemorrhage, but it is not the immediate priority compared to securing the airway.
D. Recording intake and output is necessary for fluid balance monitoring but is secondary to the immediate need to maintain a patent airway in an unconscious client.
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