A nurse in the emergency department is monitoring a client who has a cervical spinal cord injury from a fall. The nurse should monitor the client for which of the following complications? (Select all that apply.)
Weakened gag reflex
Hyperthermia
Absence of bowel sounds
Paralysis
Polyuria
Hypotension
Correct Answer : A,C,D,F
Choice A: A cervical spinal cord injury can impair the function of cranial nerves, leading to a weakened gag reflex and an increased risk of aspiration.
Choice B: Patients with spinal cord injuries are more likely to experience poikilothermia (difficulty regulating body temperature), but this often results in hypothermia, not hyperthermia, due to the loss of autonomic temperature control.
Choice C: Spinal shock, which often follows a spinal cord injury, can cause decreased or absent bowel sounds due to a temporary loss of autonomic function and decreased peristalsis.
Choice D: Depending on the level and severity of the injury, paralysis can occur, affecting motor function below the injury site. A cervical spinal cord injury may lead to quadriplegia (tetraplegia).
Choice E: Clients with spinal cord injuries are more likely to experience urinary retention, rather than polyuria, due to loss of bladder control and autonomic dysfunction. A foley catheter may be needed initially, followed by intermittent catheterization.
Choice F: Neurogenic shock, a potential complication of cervical spinal cord injuries, can cause hypotension due to the loss of sympathetic nervous system control over blood vessel tone, leading to vasodilation and bradycardia.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason: This is incorrect. Flushing of the skin is not a sign of hypovolemic shock, but rather of vasodilation or fever. Hypovolemic shock causes vasoconstriction and pale, cool, clammy skin.
Choice B Reason: This is correct. Oliguria is a decreased urine output that indicates reduced renal perfusion due to hypovolemia. The normal urine output for an adult is 0.5 to 1 mL/kg/hr.
Choice C Reason: This is incorrect. Hypertension is not a sign of hypovolemic shock, but rather of increased vascular resistance or fluid overload. Hypovolemic shock causes hypotension due to decreased blood volume and cardiac output.
Choice D Reason: This is incorrect. Bradypnea is a slow respiratory rate that indicates respiratory depression or fatigue. Hypovolemic shock causes tachypnea due to hypoxia and increased metabolic demand.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A Reason: This is incorrect. Opioids are not indicated for a client who is emerging from a coma, as they can cause respiratory depression, sedation, and confusion. They may also mask the signs of increased intracranial pressure or neurological deterioration.
Choice B Reason: This is incorrect. Darkening the room may not be helpful for a client who is emerging from a coma, as it may increase their disorientation and agitation. The nurse should provide adequate lighting and orient the client to time, place, and person frequently.
Choice C Reason: This is incorrect. Applying restraints may worsen the restlessness and agitation of a client who is emerging from a coma, as they may perceive them as a threat or a restriction. Restraints may also increase the risk of injury, infection, or skin breakdown. The nurse should use restraints only as a last resort and with a physician's order.
Choice D Reason: This is correct. Reducing stimuli is an appropriate intervention for a client who is emerging from a coma, as it can help calm them and prevent sensory overload. The nurse should limit noise, visitors, and unnecessary procedures, and provide a quiet and comfortable environment.
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