A client has undergone surgery for the creation of burr holes after sustaining head trauma from a fall and is at risk for developing an infection. An early critical manifestation of meningeal irritation for which the nurse assesses the client is :

Plantar reflex

Kernig's sign

Brudzinski's sign

Sunsetting eyes

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

Choice A reason : The plantar reflex, also known as the Babinski sign, is elicited by stroking the lateral aspect of the sole of the foot. A positive response is indicated by dorsiflexion of the big toe and fanning of the other toes. This reflex is normal in infants but may indicate central nervous system damage in adults¹. However, it is not specifically associated with meningeal irritation.

Choice B reason : Kernig's sign is a clinical sign wherein the patient experiences severe stiffness of the hamstrings causing an inability to straighten the leg when the hip is flexed to 90 degrees. This sign can indicate meningeal irritation but is not as early a sign as Brudzinski's sign².

Choice C reason : Brudzinski's sign is one of the most indicative signs of meningeal irritation. When the neck is flexed, there is involuntary flexion of the hips and knees. This reflex is an early sign of meningeal irritation and is considered a critical manifestation in assessing meningitis following head trauma².

Choice D reason : Sunsetting eyes, characterized by the downward deviation of the eyes, is associated with increased intracranial pressure, which can occur in conditions like hydrocephalus. While it may be seen in the context of brain injury, it is not a specific sign of meningeal irritation³.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A reason : While propranolol can be used to reduce the frequency and severity of migraine headaches, it is not contraindicated in patients with a history of migraines⁴.

Choice B reason : Propranolol is often prescribed for hypertension and is not contraindicated in such cases. It works by blocking beta-adrenergic receptors, which reduces heart rate and blood pressure⁴.

Choice C reason : Propranolol is contraindicated in patients with bronchial asthma. As a non-selective beta-blocker, it can cause bronchoconstriction and exacerbate asthma symptoms. Therefore, the nurse should report this finding to the provider⁴⁶.

Choice D reason : Hypothyroidism is not a contraindication for propranolol. However, the medication may mask signs of hypothyroidism, such as a slow heart rate, so the provider should be aware of the client's thyroid condition⁴.

A. Avoid exercise during flare-ups. B. Establish a regular sleep pattern. C. Increase calcium intake. D. Engage in yoga or running between flare-ups.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A reason : Avoiding exercise during flare-ups of fibromyalgia may seem intuitive to prevent exacerbating pain and fatigue. However, maintaining a gentle exercise routine, even during flare-ups, can help manage symptoms and prevent deconditioning¹.

Choice B reason : Establishing a regular sleep pattern is crucial for managing fibromyalgia. Poor sleep can exacerbate pain, fatigue, and cognitive difficulties commonly experienced with this condition. Good sleep hygiene practices can improve sleep quality and overall symptom management¹.

Choice C reason : While adequate calcium intake is essential for general health, there is no specific indication that increasing calcium intake alone would manage fibromyalgia symptoms. Nutritional needs should be addressed as part of a comprehensive approach to self-care¹.

Choice D reason : Yoga or running between flare-ups can be beneficial for clients with fibromyalgia. Regular exercise, including yoga, can improve pain, function, and quality of life. Running or other aerobic exercises can also be helpful if tolerated and done in moderation¹.

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A client has undergone surgery for the creation of burr holes after sustaining head trauma from a fall and is at risk for developing an infection. An early critical manifestation of meningeal irritation for which the nurse assesses the client is :

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is reviewing the health history of a client who has angina pectoris and a prescription for propranolol hydrochloride PO 40 mg twice daily. Which of the following findings in the history should the nurse report to the provider?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A nurse is teaching a client who has fibromyalgia about self-care strategies for managing the disorder. Which of the following information should the nurse include in the teaching?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A client diagnosed with major depressive disorder with psychotic features hears voices commanding self-harm. The client refuses to commit to developing a plan for safety. What should be the nurse's priority intervention at this time?

A patient diagnosed with schizophrenia may demonstrate these positive symptoms (select all that apply) :

Which patient is most likely experiencing a pulmonary embolism (PE)?

A nurse is caring for a client who has reported experiencing abuse at home. Which of the following actions should be a priority for the nurse?

A nurse is assessing a client who has systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

A nurse is caring for a client who has heart failure and a potassium level of 2.4 mEq/L. The nurse should identify which of the following medications as contributing to this lab value?

A client has been diagnosed with heart failure. One of the main overall objectives of the management of heart failure is which of the following?