A nurse is caring for a 30-year-old client who was brought to the emergency department (ED).
The nurse should determine the assessment findings are consistent with which of the following disease processes?
For each assessment finding, click to specify if the finding is consistent with bacterial meningitis or encephalitis. Each finding may support more than 1 disease process.
WBC count in CSF
Muscle weakness
Altered level of consciousness
Kernig sign result
Body temperature at 2105
The Correct Answer is {"A":{"answers":"A,B"},"B":{"answers":"A,B"},"C":{"answers":"A,B"},"D":{"answers":"A"},"E":{"answers":"A,B"}}
A high white blood cell (WBC) count in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is more commonly associated with bacterial meningitis, characterized by a high neutrophil count, low glucose, and high protein levels. it is also seen in encephalitis and reflects the individual cell lines that are affected.
Muscle weakness and altered levels of consciousness can occur in both conditions but are more prominent in encephalitis, which often presents with focal neurological deficits and seizures. The
Kernig sign, a classical sign of meningitis, is a physical examination finding that indicates irritation of the meninges and supports a diagnosis of bacterial meningitis when positive.
An elevated body temperature is common in bacterial meningitis, but it is not exclusive and can be observed in encephalitis as well.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Feeling hot and sweaty can occur during autonomic dysreflexia, but it is a symptom of the condition rather than a cause or risk factor.
B. Bladder distension is a common trigger for autonomic dysreflexia, a condition that occurs in individuals with spinal cord injuries at or above the T6 level, due to the excessive autonomic response to noxious stimuli such as a full bladder.
C. Elevated blood pressure is a sign of autonomic dysreflexia, but the risk factor to recognize is the underlying cause, such as bladder distension.
D. A severe headache is a symptom of autonomic dysreflexia, indicating the need for immediate action, but it is not a risk factor for developing the condition.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Corticosteroids are not typically associated with causing thrombocytopenia. Their primary effects are on the immune system and metabolism.
B. Corticosteroids more commonly cause hypertension due to fluid retention and increased sensitivity to vasoconstrictors, rather than hypotension.
C. Corticosteroids cause immunosuppression by inhibiting the function of various immune cells and reducing the production of inflammatory cytokines. This increases the risk of infections.
D. Anemia is not a direct effect of corticosteroid use. The medication's impact on the bone marrow typically affects the white blood cell count, particularly in causing leukocytosis, rather than leading to anemia.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
