A nurse is assessing a client who has Meniere’s disease. Which of the following manifestations should the nurse expect?

A. Respiratory rate of 12/min: A respiratory rate of 12/min is within the normal adult range (12-20 breaths per minute). In the context of increased intracranial pressure (ICP), respiratory rate changes might be noted as part of the Cushing's reflex (which is characterized by bradycardia, hypertension, and abnormal respiratory patterns like Cheyne-Stokes or ataxic breathing), but a rate of 12/min on its own is not indicative of a worsening condition. However, if the patient begins to show signs of irregular or abnormal breathing patterns, this would raise concern.

B. Blood pressure of 108/74 mm Hg: This blood pressure is also within the normal range and does not suggest a worsening of intracranial pressure. In fact, ICP can lead to a rise in blood pressure (due to the body's compensatory mechanisms, known as Cushing's triad), along with bradycardia and abnormal respirations. Thus, a stable blood pressure like 108/74 mm Hg is not concerning in this context.

C. Changes to pupil size and shape: Changes in pupil size, shape, or reactivity are significant indicators of worsening intracranial pressure. Unequal pupils (anisocoria), sluggish or absent response to light, and fixed dilated pupils are signs of brainstem compression or damage, which often occur as ICP increases. This could indicate herniation or severe brain injury, which are worsening conditions.

D. Swelling of the optic nerve: Swelling of the optic nerve, or papilledema, is another important sign of increased intracranial pressure. It occurs due to increased pressure within the skull, which causes congestion and swelling of the optic disc. This finding can be seen on fundoscopy and indicates a worsening condition, as it suggests elevated pressure affecting the brain.

E. Decreasing Glasgow Coma scores: A decreasing Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score is a critical indicator of worsening neurologic function in a patient with increased ICP. The GCS is used to assess a patient's level of consciousness, and a decreasing score suggests that the brain's function is deteriorating. This can be caused by worsening edema, brain herniation, or other severe neurological impairments associated with elevated ICP.

A. Severe myopia: Severe myopia, or nearsightedness, is not a typical manifestation of Meniere's disease. Meniere's disease primarily affects the inner ear and is characterized by symptoms related to balance and hearing rather than vision.

B. Vertigo: Meniere's disease is a disorder of the inner ear that causes episodes of vertigo, which is a sensation of spinning or dizziness. Vertigo is a hallmark symptom of Meniere's disease and is often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and a feeling of fullness or pressure in the affected ear.

C. Anosmia: Anosmia refers to a loss of the sense of smell and is not typically associated with Meniere's disease. Meniere's disease primarily affects the vestibular system (balance) and auditory system (hearing) rather than the sense of smell.

D. Photopsia: Photopsia refers to the perception of flashes of light in the visual field and is not a typical manifestation of Meniere's disease. Meniere's disease primarily affects the inner ear and is not directly related to visual disturbances.