A nurse is caring for a client admitted with meningitis.
The student nurse asks, “I know that the client has a lot of edema in the brain, but what causes it?” Which of the following responses from the nurse best answers the student’s querry
Cerebral edema is caused by osmotic cerebral edema.
Cerebral edema is caused by whole body inflammation which affects the brain the most.
Cerebral edema is caused by cerebrospinal fluid flowing from the intraventricular space to the interstitial area of the brain.
Cerebral edema is caused by the by-products of the pathogen that causes the meningitis.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
Osmotic cerebral edema is a condition where water moves from the blood vessels into the brain due to changes in the concentration of particles in the blood. However, this is not the primary cause of cerebral edema in meningitis.
Choice B rationale
While inflammation can contribute to cerebral edema, it is not specific to the brain and does not affect the brain the most. In meningitis, the inflammation is primarily in the meninges, the membranes that cover the brain, and not the whole body.
Choice C rationale
Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) does flow from the intraventricular space to the interstitial area of the brain, but this is a normal process and does not cause cerebral edema. In meningitis, the inflammation of the meninges can disrupt the normal flow and absorption of CSF, leading to an accumulation of fluid and increased intracranial pressure.
Choice D rationale
In meningitis, the inflammation and immune response to the infection can lead to an increase in the permeability of the blood-brain barrier. This allows fluid and immune cells to enter the brain tissue, leading to cerebral edema. Additionally, the by-products of the pathogen that causes meningitis can directly damage the brain tissue and contribute to the edema.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Age is a non-modifiable risk factor for stroke. As people age, their risk of stroke increases. However, this is not something that can be changed or controlled.
Choice B rationale
Sickle cell disease is a genetic disorder that can increase the risk of stroke, particularly in children. However, it is not a modifiable risk factor because it is determined by the person’s genes.
Choice C rationale
Having a parent with cardiovascular disease can increase a person’s risk of stroke. However, this is a non-modifiable risk factor because it is determined by genetics.
Choice D rationale
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a major modifiable risk factor for stroke. It can be controlled through lifestyle changes and medication.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of psychological treatment that can be effective for a range of conditions, including chronic pain. However, it may not be the most suitable for acute pain management at home following a knee injury. CBT usually involves working with a trained therapist over multiple sessions, which may not be practical or immediately beneficial in this context.
Choice B rationale
Intermittent ice compress is a highly recommended non-pharmacological method for managing acute pain, especially following a knee injury. The cold temperature from the ice can help numb the area, reducing pain and inflammation. It’s a simple, cost-effective, and readily available method that can be easily applied at home.
Choice C rationale
Phototherapy, also known as light therapy, involves exposure to specific wavelengths of light using polychromatic polarised light, lasers, light-emitting diodes, fluorescent lamps, or dichroic lamps. While it has been used to treat conditions like seasonal affective disorder, skin conditions, and neonatal jaundice, its effectiveness in managing acute pain following a knee injury is not well-established.
Choice D rationale
Walking on a treadmill might not be suitable for a patient experiencing acute pain following a knee injury. Physical activity is generally beneficial for overall health and certain types of chronic pain. However, in the case of an acute knee injury, rest and immobilization are often recommended initially to allow the injured tissues to heal.
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