A nurse is caring for a client admitted with meningitis. The student nurse asks, "I know that the client has a lot of edemas in the brain, but what causes it?" Which of the following responses from the nurse best answers the student's question?
"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 the by-products of the pathogen that causes the meningitis."
"Cerebral edema is caused by cerebrospinal fluid flowing from the intraventricular space to the interstitial area of the brain."
The Correct Answer is C
A. Osmotic edema refers to fluid shifts due to changes in osmotic gradients (as seen in conditions like hyponatremia), not the inflammatory process of meningitis.
B. While inflammation is a key part of the body's response in meningitis, the edema is not a result of generalized whole-body inflammation. The edema is more directly linked to local inflammatory reactions in the brain triggered by the pathogen’s by-products.
C. Bacterial cell walls, endotoxins, and other components released by the bacteria directly stimulate inflammation, causing the breakdown of the BBB and allowing fluid and inflammatory cells to leak into the brain tissue.
D. This description is more aligned with the pathophysiology of conditions like hydrocephalus rather than meningitis. In meningitis, cerebral edema is primarily due to the inflammatory response, not abnormal CSF flow.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Loss of teeth is not typically considered a direct factor contributing to obstructive sleep apnea. While the presence of teeth may play a role in maintaining the structure of the oral cavity, it is not a primary risk factor for OSA.
Choice B Reason:
Stroke is correct. Individuals who have had a stroke are at increased risk of developing obstructive sleep apnea. Stroke can cause damage to areas of the brain involved in controlling breathing and upper airway function, leading to disruptions in respiratory control during sleep.
Choice C Reason:
Sleepiness is a symptom commonly associated with obstructive sleep apnea rather than a direct contributing factor. Excessive daytime sleepiness is a consequence of disrupted sleep patterns and recurrent episodes of breathing cessation during the night, which are characteristic features of obstructive sleep apnea.
Choice D Reason:
Fatty deposits is correct. Excessive fatty deposits, particularly around the neck and throat, can contribute to the narrowing and collapse of the upper airway during sleep, increasing the risk of obstructive sleep apnea. Obesity is a significant risk factor for OSA due to the accumulation of fat deposits in the upper airway tissues.
Choice E Reason:
Muscle dysfunction is correct. Muscle dysfunction, particularly of the muscles surrounding the upper airway, can impair the ability of these muscles to keep the airway open during sleep. Weakness or dysfunction of these muscles can lead to increased collapsibility of the upper airway, contributing to obstructive sleep apnea.
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D"]
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Hyponatremia is incorrect. Hyponatremia refers to low sodium levels in the blood and is not typically associated with degenerative disc disease. This finding is unrelated to the pathophysiology of DDD.
Choice B Reason:
Paresthesia is correct. Yes, paresthesia, which refers to abnormal sensations such as tingling, numbness, or burning, can develop with degenerative disc disease. Nerve compression or irritation due to disc degeneration can lead to paresthesia in the affected area, typically radiating along the nerve pathway.
Choice B Reason:
Foot drop is correct. Yes, foot drop can develop with degenerative disc disease, especially if the condition leads to nerve compression or damage in the lumbar spine (lower back). Foot drop refers to difficulty lifting the front part of the foot due to weakness or paralysis of the muscles involved in dorsiflexion.
Choice D Reason:
Intermittent pain is correct. Yes, intermittent pain is a hallmark symptom of degenerative disc disease. Pain may vary in intensity and may worsen with certain movements or activities. Individuals with DDD may experience episodes of acute pain, as well as chronic, persistent discomfort.
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