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 ["A","B","D"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Pupillary dilation can be a sign of increased intracranial pressure, which could be a result of a traumatic brain injury following a motor vehicle accident. It’s important to assess for this symptom as it may indicate a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention.
Choice B rationale
Persistent headache is a common symptom following a head injury and can be a sign of a concussion or more serious brain injury. It’s crucial to monitor for this symptom as it can provide important information about the patient’s condition.
Choice C rationale
Presence of hand tremors is not typically associated with a head injury from a motor vehicle accident. While tremors can be a symptom of various neurological conditions, they are not commonly seen immediately after a traumatic head injury.
Choice D rationale
Difficulty waking can be a sign of a serious head injury. It could indicate a concussion or other type of traumatic brain injury. This symptom should be closely monitored as it may require immediate medical intervention.
Choice E rationale
Foot drop is not typically a symptom observed immediately after a motor vehicle accident. It’s more commonly associated with peripheral nerve conditions or stroke, rather than a head injury.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
While emotional disorders and acute pain can occur after a traumatic brain injury (TBI), they are not considered secondary conditions. These are more immediate and direct results of the injury.
Choice B rationale
Loss of sensation and cognition difficulties are common secondary conditions that can develop after a TBI. These can be due to damage to specific areas of the brain during the injury.
Choice C rationale
Body dysmorphia and neurofibrillary tangles are not typically associated with TBI. Body dysmorphia is a psychological disorder, and neurofibrillary tangles are associated with neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.
Choice D rationale
Decreased appetite and a lack of sleep can occur after a TBI, but they are more likely to be symptoms rather than secondary conditions. Secondary conditions are typically more long- term and are a result of changes in the brain after the injury.
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