A client has sustained a T4-T5 injury and the nurse suspects he is in neurogenic shock. Which of the following manifestations are consistent with neurogenic shock? Select All that Apply
A hypertension
B rapidly elevating temperature
C bradycardia
D fixed and dilated pupils
E hypotension
Correct Answer : C,E
Choice A Rationale: Hypertension is not a sign of neurogenic shock, but rather of autonomic dysreflexia, a life-threatening condition that can occur in patients with spinal cord injury above T6.
Choice B Rationale: Rapidly elevating temperature is also a sign of autonomic dysreflexia, not neurogenic shock. Neurogenic shock can cause hypothermia due to impaired thermoregulation.
Choice C Rationale: Bradycardia is a sign of neurogenic shock due to the loss of sympathetic stimulation to the heart, which normally increases the heart rate and contractility.
Choice D Rationale: Fixed and dilated pupils are a sign of brain death, not neurogenic shock. Neurogenic shock can cause miosis (constriction of the pupils) due to unopposed parasympathetic stimulation.
Choice E Rationale: Hypotension is a sign of neurogenic shock due to the vasodilation and decreased venous return caused by the loss of sympathetic tone.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A Rationale: The patient who developed a new cough after eating breakfast should be seen first. This sudden change in respiratory status during or after eating suggests a potential risk of aspiration, which requires immediate assessment and intervention to prevent respiratory distress or pneumonia.
Choice B Rationale: Medication refusal, while important, is not an immediate life threatening issue compared to a new cough with the potential for aspiration.
Choice C Rationale: Although constipation can be uncomfortable, it is not an acute priority compared to a new cough that may indicate a respiratory problem.
Choice D Rationale: A stage II pressure ulcer on the coccyx, while concerning, is not an immediate priority over a potential respiratory issue that requires urgent attention.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A Rationale: Assessing the client for bladder distention is the first and most crucial step in managing autonomic dysreflexia. Bladder distention is a common trigger for this condition in clients with spinal cord injuries. Identifying and addressing the cause (bladder distention) is the priority to prevent further complications.
Choice B Rationale: Laying the client flat may not resolve the underlying cause of autonomic dysreflexia and should be done after identifying and addressing the trigger.
Choice C Rationale: Obtaining the client's heart rate is important but should come after assessing for bladder distention since the primary concern in autonomic dysreflexia is elevated blood pressure due to a noxious stimulus.
Choice D Rationale: Administering a nitrate antihypertensive may be necessary if other interventions do not resolve the blood pressure elevation, but it should not be the first action. Identifying and addressing the cause, such as bladder distention, is the priority.
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