A nurse is caring for a client in the emergency department who has a preliminary diagnosis of a transient ischemic attack (TIA). Which of the following diagnostic testing should the nurse anticipate the provider to prescribe?
Computerized tomography angiography (CTA)
Complete blood count (CBC)
Prothrombin time (PT)
Transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE)
The Correct Answer is A
A.Computerized tomography angiography (CTA)
This is a likely diagnostic test that the provider may prescribe. CTA uses computed tomography (CT) imaging to visualize the blood vessels in the brain and neck. It can help identify areas of stenosis, occlusion, or other abnormalities in the blood vessels that may contribute to the TIA symptoms.
B. Complete blood count (CBC)
A complete blood count (CBC) is a routine laboratory test that assesses various components of blood, such as red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. While it may not be specific to diagnosing a transient ischemic attack (TIA), it can help evaluate for underlying conditions such as anemia or thrombocytosis that could contribute to TIA symptoms or increase the risk of stroke.
C. Prothrombin time (PT)
Prothrombin time (PT) is a laboratory test that evaluates the clotting ability of blood and is typically used to monitor anticoagulant therapy. While abnormal coagulation parameters may be associated with certain conditions that predispose to TIA (such as atrial fibrillation), PT alone is not a specific diagnostic test for TIA.
D. Transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE)
This is another possible diagnostic test that the provider may prescribe. TEE is a specialized echocardiogram that provides detailed images of the heart structures by inserting an ultrasound probe
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. "Have you had an MMR immunization?"
This question is not directly relevant to the assessment of Guillain-Barré syndrome. MMR immunization history may be pertinent to other health assessments, such as immunity to measles, mumps, and rubella.
B. "Have you had a recent upper respiratory infection?"
This is the correct answer. GBS often occurs after a recent upper respiratory or gastrointestinal infection, so asking about recent illnesses can provide valuable information for diagnosis.
C. "Have you traveled overseas recently?"
While travel history may be relevant to certain infectious diseases, it is not typically associated with the development of Guillain-Barré syndrome. Therefore, this question is less pertinent in this context.
D. "Are you taking a multivitamin?"
The use of multivitamins is unlikely to be directly related to the development of Guillain-Barré syndrome. While nutritional status is important for overall health, it is not a primary focus when assessing for GBS.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Toes turning up and spreading:
This description corresponds to the abnormal finding in the Babinski reflex. In a positive Babinski sign, the big toe (hallux) dorsiflexes (turns upward) and the other toes fan out. This response is abnormal in adults but normal in infants up to a certain age.
B. Downward curl of the toes:
This response is typical of the normal plantar reflex, where the toes curl downward (plantar flexion) in response to stimulation of the sole of the foot. It is not indicative of the Babinski reflex.
C. Pain in the big toe:
Pain in the big toe is not a characteristic finding of the Babinski reflex. The Babinski sign is assessed by observing the movement pattern of the toes in response to stimulation, rather than eliciting pain.
D. Big toe bending upward:
The big toe bending upward, or dorsiflexion of the big toe, is a specific component of the positive Babinski sign. However, it is typically accompanied by spreading of the other toes, which is the hallmark feature of the Babinski reflex.

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.