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

Answer and Explanation

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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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Confusion can be a sign of delirium, which is a common complication of immobility in older adults due to sensory deprivation, sleep disturbance, medication side effects, or dehydration. The nurse should assess for other causes of confusion, such as infection or hypoxia, and implement interventions to prevent or treat delirium.

A. Magnesium sulfate B. Digoxin C. Atropine sulfate D. Diltiazem

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

This is because the client is experiencing bradycardia, which is a slow heart rate of less than 60/min. Bradycardia can cause decreased cardiac output, which can lead to symptoms such as tremors, fainting, dizziness, chest pain, shortness of breath, and hypotension. Some causes of bradycardia are sinus node dysfunction, atrioventricular block, medication side effects, hypothyroidism, hypothermia, and increased vagal tone.

The nurse should anticipate administering atropine sulfate, which is an anticholinergic drug that blocks the action of the vagus nerve on the heart and increases the heart rate and conduction. Atropine sulfate is the first-line drug for symptomatic bradycardia and can be given intravenously or intramuscularly. The nurse should monitor the client's vital signs, cardiac rhythm, and response to the medication. The nurse should also prepare for other interventions, such as transcutaneous pacing or permanent pacemaker insertion, if atropine sulfate is ineffective or contraindicated.

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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?

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