A nurse is assessing a client who has increased intracranial pressure (ICP). The nurse should recognize that which of the following is the first sign of deteriorating neurological status?
Pupillary dilation
Decorticate posturing
Altered level of consciousness
Cheyne-Stokes respirations
The Correct Answer is C
Altered level of consciousness (LOC) is the earliest and most sensitive indicator of increased ICP, which can result from brain injury, tumor, hemorrhage, infection, or edema.
The nurse should monitor the client's LOC using the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) and report any changes or deterioration to the provider. Pupillary dilation, decorticate posturing, and Cheyne-Stokes respirations are later signs of increased ICP that indicate brainstem compression and herniation, which are life-threatening emergencies.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The nurse should instruct the client to use a 10-mL syringe or larger to flush the PICC line with normal saline or heparin solution, as prescribed, to prevent occlusion and thrombosis. The other options are incorrect because they may cause complications such as infection, phlebitis, or bleeding.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A chest physiotherapy vest is a device that delivers high-frequency chest wall oscillation to loosen and mobilize mucus from the airways . This helps improve lung function and prevent respiratory infections in patients with cystic fibrosis, who have thick and sticky mucus production . A peak flow meter is used to measure the peak expiratory flow rate, which reflects the degree of airway obstruction in patients with asthma .
An NG tube with suction apparatus is used to decompress the stomach and remove gastric contents in patients with bowel obstruction, paralytic ileus, or gastroparesis . A chest tube with a drainage system is used to remove air or fluid from the pleural space in patients with pneumothorax, hemothorax, or pleural effusion .
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