A client presents to the clinic with complaints of otalgia and muffled sounds. The client is diagnosed with external otitis. Which of the following will the nurse not include in client teaching?

The correct answers are b, d, and e.

Choice A: Slurred speech.

Slurred speech can be associated with increased ICP due to the pressure effects on the brain areas responsible for speech production. However, it is not typically considered a late sign of increased ICP. It may occur earlier in the progression as the brain's ability to coordinate muscle movements is affected.

Choice B: Bradycardia with a bounding pulse.

Bradycardia with a bounding pulse is a classic sign of Cushing's triad, which is a late and ominous sign of significantly increased ICP. It indicates that the body is attempting to increase arterial blood pressure to overcome the increased ICP and maintain cerebral perfusion. The normal range for adult heart rate is 60-100 beats per minute.

Choice C: Confusion.

Confusion can be an early sign of increased ICP as it can indicate changes in cerebral function. However, it is not specifically a late sign of increased ICP. Early signs of increased ICP can include headache, nausea, and confusion, as the brain is initially responding to the pressure changes.

Choice D: Hypertension with an increasing pulse pressure.

Hypertension with an increasing pulse pressure is another component of Cushing's triad. It reflects the body's compensatory mechanism to preserve cerebral blood flow in the face of rising ICP. An increasing pulse pressure (the difference between systolic and diastolic blood pressure) is a late sign of increased ICP. Normal pulse pressure is typically 30-40 mm Hg.

Choice E: Nonreactive dilated pupils.

Nonreactive dilated pupils are a late sign of increased ICP and indicate pressure on the cranial nerves that control pupil size and reaction to light. This is a grave sign and often indicates impending brain herniation.

Choice F: Hypotension with a decreasing pulse pressure.

Hypotension with a decreasing pulse pressure is not typically associated with increased ICP. In fact, hypertension with a widening pulse pressure would be more indicative of increased ICP as part of Cushing's triad.

Choice A reason: Resting in bed for at least 2 days is not necessary after cataract surgery. The client should resume normal activities as soon as possible, but avoid strenuous activities that increase intraocular pressure.

Choice B reason: Deep breathing and coughing four times a day are not related to cataract surgery. This is a technique to prevent respiratory complications after abdominal or thoracic surgery.

Choice C reason: After two days, a creamy discharge is not normal. This could indicate an infection or inflammation of the eye. The client should report any changes in vision, pain, redness, swelling, or discharge to the provider.

Choice D reason: Keeping the head up and straight is the correct instruction. This helps to prevent increased intraocular pressure and bleeding in the eye. The client should also avoid rubbing or touching the eye, wearing sunglasses to protect from bright light, and using prescribed eye drops as directed.