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.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
An ileostomy is a surgical opening in the abdomen that connects the end of the small intestine (ileum) to a pouch or bag on the outside of the body. The ileostomy bypasses the large intestine (colon) and rectum, which normally absorb water and form solid stools. Therefore, the client should expect their stools to be loose and watery. The client should empty their bag several times a day, not when it is full, to prevent leakage and skin irritation. The client should avoid laxatives, which can cause dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. The client should also avoid high-fiber foods, which can cause blockage or irritation of the ileostomy.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
This is because peritonitis is an infection of the peritoneal cavity that can occur as a complication of peritoneal dialysis. Peritonitis can cause inflammation and irritation of the peritoneum, which can lead to cloudy or milky appearance of the dialysate fluid that drains out of the abdomen (also known as effluent). Cloudy effluent is often the first and most reliable sign of peritonitis in peritoneal dialysis patients. Other signs and symptoms of peritonitis may include increased heart rate, generalized abdominal pain, fever, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and malaise.
The nurse should instruct the client and his partner to inspect the effluent for clarity every time they perform an exchange and to report any changes to their health care provider immediately. The nurse should also teach them how to prevent peritonitis by following strict aseptic technique when handlingcatheters and supplies, washing hands before and after each exchange, wearing a mask during exchanges, and storing supplies in a clean and dry place.
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