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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Cauliflower is not a good dietary choice for a client with cholelithiasis. Cholelithiasis refers to the presence of gallstones, and certain foods, including cauliflower, can exacerbate symptoms in some individuals.
Choice B rationale:
Increasing the amount of egg yolks in the diet is not advisable for a client with cholelithiasis. Egg yolks are high in cholesterol and can contribute to gallstone formation.
Choice C rationale:
This is the correct choice. Desserts like angel-food cake are a better dietary option for a client with cholelithiasis. Angel-food cake is typically low in fat and cholesterol, making it a more suitable choice for those with gallbladder issues.
Choice D rationale:
Eating choice or prime cuts of meat is not recommended for clients with cholelithiasis. These types of meat are often higher in fat, which can trigger gallbladder symptoms.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
An elevated WBC count (11,000/mm²) in a client starting treatment for MRSA infection may indicate an inflammatory response, but it is expected in this scenario, and the priority is not as high as other critical lab values.
Choice B rationale:
A serum pH of 7.25 indicates acidosis, which is a potentially life-threatening condition. In type 1 diabetes mellitus, diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a common complication that can lead to metabolic acidosis. This lab result is a priority as it requires immediate attention.
Choice C rationale:
Hematocrit of 26% in a client with sickle cell disease might be low, but it is not the priority over the critically abnormal lab value of serum pH in option B.
Choice D rationale:
A urine specific gravity of 1.032 in a client diagnosed with dehydration is elevated, indicating concentrated urine due to dehydration. While dehydration is concerning, it is not as high-priority as the potentially life-threatening acidosis in option B.
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