A nurse in an emergency department is assessing a client who has a basilar skull fracture and serosanguineous nasal discharge following a motor vehicle crash. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as reliable for determining that the discharge is cerebrospinal fluid?
Papilledema.
Halo sign.
Racoon's eyes.
Elevated WBCs.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
Papilledema refers to swelling of the optic disc in the eye, which can occur due to increased intracranial pressure. While it may be present in cases of basilar skull fracture, it is not a reliable finding for determining the discharge of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).
Choice B rationale:
The halo sign is a reliable finding for determining that the nasal discharge is cerebrospinal fluid. The halo sign is characterized by a ring of blood surrounded by a clear or yellowish fluid (CSF) on a dressing or tissue. This occurs because blood from the fracture mixes with the clear CSF, creating a distinct appearance.
Choice C rationale:
Racoon's eyes, also known as periorbital ecchymosis, is a term used to describe bruising around the eyes. While it can be seen in basilar skull fractures, it is not specific to cerebrospinal fluid leakage and, therefore, not reliable for identifying the nasal discharge as CSF.
Choice D rationale:
Elevated white blood cells (WBCs) in the nasal discharge can indicate infection, inflammation, or an immune response. However, it does not provide direct evidence that the discharge is cerebrospinal fluid, so this is not a reliable finding for determining the nature of the nasal discharge in this context.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Answer: C. "Insert the entire needle into your skin to administer medication completely."
Rationale:
A) "Administer this medication into your leg muscle."
Enoxaparin should be administered subcutaneously, typically in the abdominal area, not into a muscle. Injecting it intramuscularly can lead to unpredictable absorption and increase the risk of bleeding.
B) "Expel the excess air in the syringe before you administer the medication."
This statement is incorrect. For enoxaparin, it is recommended to retain the air bubble in the syringe. The air bubble helps ensure the entire dose is delivered and minimizes leakage at the injection site.
C) "Insert the entire needle into your skin to administer medication completely."
This is an appropriate instruction as it emphasizes the need to fully insert the needle for effective subcutaneous delivery of enoxaparin. Proper technique is essential to ensure the medication is administered as intended.
D) "Take ibuprofen for fever following administration of this medication."
This recommendation is not advisable because ibuprofen, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), can increase the risk of bleeding, especially when taken concurrently with enoxaparin. The client should consult their healthcare provider for safe alternatives for managing fever or pain.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Taking sitz baths can provide comfort but will not directly address the transmission of herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). It is essential to avoid sexual activity during outbreaks to prevent spreading the infection to a partner.
Choice B rationale:
Cleansing lesions with 1/2 strength peroxide may irritate the affected area and delay healing. The recommended approach is to use gentle soap and water to clean the lesions.
Choice C rationale:
"I will avoid sexual activity until my lesions are healed.”. This statement indicates an understanding of the teaching because HSV-2 is highly contagious during active outbreaks. Avoiding sexual activity during this time is essential to prevent transmitting the virus to a partner.
Choice D rationale:
"I am not contagious once I begin antiviral medication.”. This statement is incorrect as antiviral medications can help manage outbreaks but do not eliminate the risk of transmission entirely. The virus remains contagious until lesions are completely healed.
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