A nurse is admitting a patient with a subarachnoid hemorrhage and expects to administer which of the following medications to decrease intracranial pressure (ICP)?

Choice A rationale
The aura phase is characterized by sensory, motor, or visual disturbances that occur before the headache phase of a migraine. Symptoms such as tingling of the face and blind spots in the eyes are common during this phase.

Choice B rationale
The postdrome phase, also known as the “migraine hangover,” occurs after the headache phase. It does not typically include symptoms such as tingling of the face or blind spots in the eyes.
Choice C rationale
The prodrome phase, also known as the pre-headache phase, can occur hours to days before the headache phase. It can include symptoms such as mood changes, food cravings, and neck stiffness, but not typically tingling of the face or blind spots in the eyes.
Choice D rationale
The headache phase is the period during a migraine when the actual headache occurs. It is not typically associated with symptoms such as tingling of the face or blind spots in the eyes.

Choice A rationale: The nurse should prepare to administer tissue plasminogen activator (tPA). This medication is used to dissolve blood clots that have formed in the blood vessels of the brain. The client’s CT scan shows a large area of decreased attenuation in the left hemisphere, which is indicative of a stroke. The administration of tPA is time-sensitive and should be initiated as soon as possible after the onset of symptoms if there is no evidence of hemorrhage on the CT scan.

Choice B rationale: Positioning the client on his right side is not necessarily beneficial in this situation. The client is experiencing symptoms of a stroke, and positioning will not alleviate these symptoms. It is more important to focus on interventions that can potentially reverse the effects of the stroke, such as the administration of tPA.

Choice C rationale: There is no indication that the client requires a bolus of 50% dextrose. The client’s blood glucose levels are within normal limits, and hypoglycemia is not a concern at this time. Administering a bolus of 50% dextrose without indication could potentially lead to hyperglycemia.

Choice D rationale: The nurse should anticipate the need for endotracheal intubation. The client’s condition is deteriorating, and he is now unresponsive to verbal stimuli and only responds to painful stimuli. This indicates a decreased level of consciousness, which can compromise the client’s airway. Endotracheal intubation may be necessary to protect the client’s airway and ensure adequate ventilation.

Choice E rationale: The nurse should prepare to administer antihypertensive medication. The client’s blood pressure is significantly elevated, which can further exacerbate the damage caused by a stroke. Antihypertensive medication can help to lower the client’s blood pressure and reduce the risk of further complications.

Choice F rationale: The nurse should use a calm and reassuring approach when interacting with the client. This can help to reduce anxiety and promote a sense of safety. It is important to remember that the client may be scared and confused due to his symptoms, and a calm and reassuring approach can help to alleviate these feelings.

Choice G rationale: Restricting all fluids and sodium intake is not indicated in this situation. While fluid and sodium balance is important in stroke patients, there is no indication that the client is fluid overloaded or has a condition that would require sodium restriction. Furthermore, the client has been prescribed IV fluids, indicating that fluid restriction is not appropriate at this time.