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.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Report the finding so a sleep medication can be prescribed. While this might eventually be necessary, it's premature to suggest medication without further assessing the problem. Other interventions could be tried first.
B. Clarify what the client means by trouble falling asleep. Clarifying the client's statement is essential to understand the specific nature of the sleep problem, such as how long it takes to fall asleep, how often it occurs, and whether there are any contributing factors. This is a critical step in assessment before any further action.
C. Ask the client what they do before going to bed. This is a good follow-up question, but it should come after clarification of what the client means by trouble falling asleep. Understanding pre-bedtime routines is important but secondary to defining the issue.
D. Question the client about their use of caffeine. While this is a relevant question that could affect sleep patterns, it should follow after understanding the client's specific sleep issues.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Disturbed body image related to depression: While body image disturbances can occur with depression, it is not the primary concern following a suicide attempt.
B. Imbalanced nutrition: Less than body requirements related to depression: While nutritional imbalances may be present in clients with depression, the most pressing concern after a suicide attempt is safety.
C. Hygiene self-care deficit related to depression: A self-care deficit is often present in depression but is not the most urgent diagnosis after a suicide attempt.
D. Risk for self-directed violence related to depression: This is the most appropriate nursing diagnosis following a suicide attempt, as it directly addresses the client’s risk of harm to themselves.
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