A nurse is attending to a patient who suddenly experiences numbness and weakness on the right side of their body, including their arm and leg.
The nurse also observes a distinct droop on the right side of the patient’s face.
After reporting these findings to the healthcare provider, the nurse receives several prescriptions for the patient, including an immediate CT scan of the head.
What should be the nurse’s first course of action?
Initiate two large-bore IV catheters and review the inclusion criteria for IV fibrinolytic therapy.
Start continuous observation for transient episodes of neurologic dysfunction.
Elevate the head of the bed to 30 degrees, keeping the head and neck in neutral alignment.
Administer aspirin to prevent further clot formation and platelet aggregation.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
If a patient suddenly experiences numbness and weakness on the right side of their body, including their arm and leg, and a distinct droop on the right side of the patient’s face, these are warning signs of a stroke. The nurse’s first course of action should be to initiate two large- bore IV catheters and review the inclusion criteria for IV fibrinolytic therapy. This is because rapid administration of fibrinolytic therapy can significantly improve outcomes in patients with acute ischemic stroke.
Choice B rationale
Continuous observation for transient episodes of neurologic dysfunction is important, but the immediate priority is to prepare for potential fibrinolytic therapy.
Choice C rationale
Elevating the head of the bed to 30 degrees and keeping the head and neck in neutral alignment can be beneficial in certain situations, but it is not the immediate priority in this scenario.
Choice D rationale
Administering aspirin can help prevent further clot formation and platelet aggregation in patients with acute coronary syndrome or those at high risk of cardiovascular disease.
However, in the case of a suspected stroke, immediate medical evaluation and potential fibrinolytic therapy are the priorities.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","F"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Performing a thorough physical assessment is crucial when elder mistreatment is suspected. It helps to identify any signs of physical abuse or neglect.
Choice B rationale
Developing a safety plan is an important step in ensuring the safety of the elder. This plan can include strategies to avoid potential harm and steps to take if the elder feels unsafe.
Choice C rationale
Taking photographs to document the abuse or neglect can provide concrete evidence of the mistreatment. These photographs can be used in investigations and legal proceedings.
Choice F rationale
Completing a comprehensive history is necessary to understand the full context of the elder’s situation. This includes the elder’s health status, living conditions, and the nature of their relationship with the caregiver.
Choice H rationale
Reporting findings to Adult Protective Services is a critical step in addressing elder mistreatment. Adult Protective Services can conduct further investigations and take necessary actions to protect the elder.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Using an electric heating pad when the pain is at its worst is not recommended for a client with gout. Heat can increase inflammation and exacerbate pain. Instead, applying a cold pack to the inflamed joint can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
Choice B rationale
Acetylsalicylic acid, also known as aspirin, can increase uric acid levels in the blood and exacerbate gout symptoms. Therefore, clients with gout should avoid taking medications containing acetylsalicylic acid.
Choice C rationale
Consuming high-protein foods can increase uric acid levels in the blood and trigger a gout attack. Clients with gout are usually advised to follow a low-purine diet, which involves limiting the intake of high-purine foods such as red meat and seafood.
Choice D rationale
Encouraging active range of motion to limit stiffness may not be appropriate for a client with an acute gout attack. During an attack, moving the affected joint can be extremely painful. Rest and immobilization of the affected joint are usually recommended during this time.
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