A client exhibiting an altered level of consciousness (LOC) due to blunt force trauma to the head is admitted to the ED. The nurse should gauge the client's LOC on the results of what diagnostic tool?
Monro-Kellie hypothesis
Glasgow Coma Scale
Cranial nerve function
Mental status examination
The Correct Answer is B
A. Monro-Kellie hypothesis: The Monro-Kellie hypothesis explains the relationship between the volumes of brain tissue, blood, and cerebrospinal fluid in the cranium, but it is not a diagnostic tool for assessing LOC.
B. Glasgow Coma Scale: The Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) is a standardized tool used to assess a client's level of consciousness, particularly in cases of head injury. It evaluates eye opening, verbal response, and motor response.
C. Cranial nerve function: Cranial nerve assessment is important in evaluating neurological function, but it is not a comprehensive tool for gauging LOC.
D. Mental status examination: A mental status examination assesses cognitive functions, but the Glasgow Coma Scale is more appropriate for evaluating LOC in the context of head trauma.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Generalized pain: Generalized pain is not a typical early sign of deterioration following a hemorrhagic stroke.
B. Alteration in level of consciousness (LOC): An alteration in LOC is often the earliest and most sensitive sign of neurological deterioration in clients who have had a hemorrhagic stroke. This can indicate increased intracranial pressure or further bleeding.
C. Tonic-clonic seizures: While seizures can occur after a stroke, they are not typically the earliest sign of deterioration. Changes in LOC usually precede seizure activity.
D. Shortness of breath: Shortness of breath may indicate respiratory issues but is not directly related to early neurological deterioration following a stroke.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Elevate the head of the bed: Elevating the head of the bed is not the priority during a seizure. The primary concern is ensuring the client's safety by preventing injury.
B. Restrain the client's arms and legs: Restraining a client during a seizure is not advised, as it can cause injury. Instead, the focus should be on protecting the client from harm.
C. Place a tongue blade in the client's mouth: Placing anything in the client’s mouth during a seizure is contraindicated, as it can lead to airway obstruction or injury.
D. Take measures to prevent injury: The priority during a seizure is to protect the client from injury by ensuring a safe environment, such as padding the head and moving any dangerous objects away.
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