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 D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Is not suitable for a client who has undergone a mastectomy with axillary lymph node dissection. This exercise may put a strain on the surgical site and cause discomfort or injury.
Choice B rationale:
Is also not appropriate for a postoperative mastectomy client. It involves using the left hand extensively, which could potentially disrupt the healing process and cause pain.
Choice C rationale:
Is not recommended for a postoperative mastectomy client. It involves significant upper body movement, which may not be well-tolerated after surgery, especially with lymph node dissection.
Choice D rationale:
This exercise is suitable for a postoperative mastectomy client as it helps in maintaining hand and arm mobility without putting excessive strain on the surgical site. It also aids in preventing complications like lymphedema, which is a potential concern after lymph node dissection.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Increased peristalsis would be a positive sign and not indicative of postoperative paralytic ileus. Increased peristalsis would mean the bowel is functioning well.
Choice B rationale:
Abdominal distension is a classic sign of postoperative paralytic ileus, where the bowel's motility is reduced or absent. This condition can lead to a buildup of gas and fluids, causing the abdomen to become distended.
Choice C rationale:
Proximal high-pitched bowel sounds can be a normal finding after surgery, but they are not indicative of paralytic ileus. They may even be heard as the bowel recovers its motility.
Choice D rationale:
Passing flatus is a positive sign, as it indicates that the bowel is working and the patient is passing gas. This is not indicative of a postoperative paralytic ileus, which is characterized by the absence of bowel movement.
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