A nurse in an emergency department is providing care for a client who has a subdural hematoma. The nurse should identify that which of the following is the earliest manifestation of a change in neurological status?
Severe headache.
Bradycardia.
Widened pulse pressure.
Change in level of consciousness.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale:
Severe headache can be a symptom of a subdural hematoma, but it is not the earliest manifestation of a change in neurological status. Other symptoms may appear before a severe headache, such as an altered level of consciousness.
Choice B rationale:
Bradycardia can occur with a subdural hematoma, especially as intracranial pressure increases. However, it is not the earliest manifestation of a change in neurological status. Changes in heart rate may occur later in the progression of the condition.
Choice C rationale:
Widened pulse pressure can also occur in patients with a subdural hematoma due to increased intracranial pressure. However, it is not the earliest manifestation of a change in neurological status. Other neurological signs would likely appear before changes in pulse pressure are evident.
Choice D rationale:
Change in level of consciousness is the earliest manifestation of a change in neurological status with a subdural hematoma. As intracranial pressure increases, the brain's functioning can be affected, leading to alterations in consciousness, ranging from mild confusion to unconsciousness.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The statement "If I can keep my hemoglobin A1C less than 6.5%, I will be cured of diabetes.”. is incorrect. While maintaining an A1C level below 6.5% is a recommended target for some individuals with diabetes, achieving this level does not cure diabetes. Diabetes is a chronic condition that requires ongoing management and lifestyle modifications.
Choice B rationale:
Checking blood sugar levels before exercising is an important aspect of managing type 1 diabetes. Exercise can affect blood glucose levels, and knowing the current level helps the client determine whether it is safe to engage in physical activity or if adjustments to insulin or carbohydrate intake are needed.
Choice C rationale:
Having regular eye checks every 2 years is essential for clients with diabetes, but it is not the best statement that indicates an understanding of health promotion activities for a new diagnosis of type 1 diabetes mellitus.
Choice D rationale:
Soaking feet daily in warm, soapy water is not a recommended practice for clients with diabetes. It can lead to skin dryness and increase the risk of infection. Instead, clients with diabetes should practice daily foot inspections and keep their feet moisturized to prevent complications related to peripheral neuropathy.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The client's daily peak expiratory flow (PEF) measures 85% above personal best.
Choice A rationale:
Salmeterol is a long-acting beta-agonist used to treat asthma. Improvement in the client's daily peak expiratory flow (PEF) of 85% above their personal best indicates effective bronchodilation and better asthma control.
Choice B rationale:
ABGs showing a pH level of 7.32 are not indicative of the effectiveness of salmeterol. ABG values assess the client's acid-base balance and gas exchange, but they do not directly reflect the action of the medication.
Choice C rationale:
A decrease in forced expiratory volume after treatment with medication indicates a lack of response to the therapy, not an effective outcome. It suggests the medication is not adequately controlling the client's asthma symptoms.
Choice D rationale:
Wheezing limited to expiration is not a clear indicator of medication effectiveness. Wheezing can be present in various respiratory conditions and is not solely associated with asthma control. Exhibit. The correct answer is choice B: Increase the rate of the infusion by 160 units/hr.
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