A client with a spinal cord injury is at risk for experiencing autonomic dysreflexia. The nurse would carefully monitor the client for which of the following manifestations?
Severe, throbbing headache
Hypotension
Fever
Cyanosis of the head and neck
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason : A severe, throbbing headache is a common and significant manifestation of autonomic dysreflexia. This condition is a potentially life-threatening medical emergency that can occur in individuals with spinal cord injuries, typically above the T6 level. The headache results from a sudden and severe increase in blood pressure due to an exaggerated response of the autonomic nervous system to a stimulus below the level of the injury.
Choice B reason: Hypotension, or low blood pressure, is not a manifestation of autonomic dysreflexia. In fact, the condition is characterized by hypertension, or high blood pressure, which is a critical sign that requires immediate attention to prevent complications such as stroke or seizure.
Choice C reason: Fever is not a direct manifestation of autonomic dysreflexia. While a fever may indicate an infection or other systemic issue, autonomic dysreflexia itself is specifically associated with a rapid onset of high blood pressure and other autonomic disturbances.
Choice D reason: Cyanosis of the head and neck, which refers to a bluish discoloration of the skin due to poor circulation or inadequate oxygenation of the blood, is not a typical manifestation of autonomic dysreflexia. The condition primarily causes hypertension and its associated symptoms, rather than issues with oxygenation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: A respiratory rate of 24/min is slightly higher than the normal range (12-20 breaths per minute) and does not necessarily indicate the effectiveness of furosemide in treating pulmonary edema.
Choice B reason: Adventitious breath sounds, such as crackles or wheezes, are often present in pulmonary edema and would not indicate that the furosemide is effective. The resolution of these sounds would be a better indicator of improvement.
Choice C reason: Weight loss of 1.8 kg (4 lb) in the past 24 hours likely indicates a reduction in fluid retention, which is a desired effect of furosemide in the treatment of pulmonary edema. This diuretic effect reduces the fluid overload, thereby improving the symptoms of pulmonary edema.
Choice D reason: An elevation in blood pressure is not an expected outcome of effective furosemide therapy for pulmonary edema. Furosemide is a diuretic and would more likely lead to a reduction in blood pressure due to fluid loss.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A: Rinse your mouth with hydrogen peroxide
Rinsing the mouth with hydrogen peroxide is not recommended for clients with mucositis. Hydrogen peroxide can be too harsh and may cause further irritation to the already sensitive mucosal lining. It is generally advised to use mild rinses such as saline or baking soda solutions.
Choice B: Brush your teeth for 60 seconds twice daily
While brushing is important, it should be done gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush, and the timing should be based on patient tolerance rather than a strict 60-second rule.
Choice C: Floss your teeth gently following each meal
Gentle flossing helps remove food particles and bacteria, reducing the risk of infection. However, if bleeding occurs, the patient should stop and consult a healthcare provider.
Choice D: Wear your dentures only during meals
Wearing dentures only during meals might be advisable for some clients with mucositis, as wearing them all day could irritate the inflamed oral tissues. However, it’s important for the dentures to fit properly and for the client to have periods of rest without the dentures to allow the oral tissues to heal.
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