A nurse in an emergency department is caring for a client who has manifestations of an ischemic stroke that began 2 hr ago. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Initiate fibrinolytic therapy.
Place the client in a supine position.
Prepare the client for a chest x-ray.
Insert an indwelling urinary catheter.
The Correct Answer is A
Rationale:
A. Initiate fibrinolytic therapy: Fibrinolytic therapy, such as tissue plasminogen activator (tPA), is most effective when administered within a 3- to 4.5-hour window from the onset of ischemic stroke symptoms. Early administration can dissolve the clot, restore cerebral blood flow, and improve neurological outcomes.
B. Place the client in a supine position: Clients with ischemic stroke are usually positioned with the head of the bed elevated 15–30 degrees unless contraindicated. Supine positioning can increase intracranial pressure and risk aspiration, which may worsen neurological status.
C. Prepare the client for a chest x-ray: A chest x-ray is not a priority in acute ischemic stroke management. Immediate neuroimaging, typically a CT scan, is required to differentiate ischemic from hemorrhagic stroke before initiating fibrinolytic therapy.
D. Insert an indwelling urinary catheter: Inserting a catheter is not indicated as an initial intervention for acute stroke unless the client is unable to void or requires strict output monitoring. Priority actions focus on neuroprotection and reperfusion therapy.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Rationale:
A. "Avoid consuming grapefruit juice while taking this medication.": Grapefruit juice inhibits the cytochrome P450 enzyme system in the liver, leading to increased serum levels of nifedipine. This can potentiate adverse effects such as hypotension, dizziness, and tachycardia.
B. "Your magnesium level will be monitored while taking this medication.": Nifedipine, a calcium channel blocker, does not significantly affect magnesium levels. Monitoring magnesium is more relevant for clients receiving magnesium sulfate.
C. "This medication can cause changes in thyroid function.": Nifedipine has no known effects on thyroid hormones or gland function. Drugs affecting thyroid function include amiodarone or lithium, not calcium channel blockers like nifedipine.
D. "This medication can cause an increase in blood glucose levels.": Nifedipine does not alter glucose metabolism. Medications such as corticosteroids and thiazide diuretics are more likely to cause hyperglycemia, whereas nifedipine’s primary effects involve smooth muscle relaxation and vasodilation.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Rationale:
A. "I will plan to continue taking this medication for at least 5 years.": Disulfiram therapy is not prescribed for a fixed duration such as 5 years. The length of treatment depends on the client’s motivation and response, typically continuing until long-term abstinence is maintained.
B. "My provider wants me to take this medication for 2 weeks before I try to quit drinking.": Disulfiram must be started only after the client has abstained from alcohol for at least 12 hours, not before quitting. Taking it while alcohol is still in the system can trigger severe reactions such as flushing, nausea, vomiting, and hypotension.
C. "I should avoid over-the-counter medications that contain alcohol.": Even small amounts of alcohol—such as in cough syrups, mouthwash, or sauces—can cause a dangerous disulfiram-alcohol reaction. Clients must avoid all alcohol-containing products.
D. "I will need to get a monthly injection of this medication.": Disulfiram is taken orally, usually once daily, and does not come in injectable form. The injectable medication used for alcohol dependence is naltrexone (Vivitrol).
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
