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 ["B","D"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Lurasidone does not necessarily need to be taken on an empty stomach. It can be taken with or without food.
Choice B rationale:
Avoiding grapefruit juice is essential with lurasidone as it can interfere with the drug's metabolism and increase the risk of side effects.
Choice C rationale:
Changing positions slowly is relevant for medications that can cause orthostatic hypotension, but lurasidone is not typically associated with this side effect.
Choice D rationale:
Lurasidone can cause insomnia in some individuals, so it is important for the client to be aware of this potential side effect. It is best taken in the evening to minimize this effect.
Choice E rationale:
While involuntary movements (extrapyramidal symptoms) can occur with some antipsychotic medications, lurasidone has a lower risk of causing these side effects compared to older antipsychotics. It is not a major concern with lurasidone treatment.
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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