A nurse is caring for a client who experienced a traumatic brain injury 72 hr ago.
Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as a potential indication of increased intracranial pressure?

Tachycardia.

Hypotension.

Narrowed pulse pressure.

Increasingly severe headache.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

The correct answer is choice d. Increasingly severe headache.

Choice A rationale:

Tachycardia is not typically associated with increased intracranial pressure (ICP). In fact, bradycardia (a slower heart rate) is more commonly seen as part of Cushing’s triad, which indicates increased ICP.

Choice B rationale:

Hypotension is not a common sign of increased ICP. Instead, hypertension (high blood pressure) is often observed as the body attempts to maintain cerebral perfusion pressure.

Choice C rationale:

Narrowed pulse pressure is not a typical indicator of increased ICP. Widened pulse pressure (the difference between systolic and diastolic blood pressure) is more commonly associated with increased ICP.

Choice D rationale:

Increasingly severe headache is a classic symptom of increased ICP. As pressure within the skull rises, it can cause significant pain and discomfort, making this a key indicator to monitor in patients with traumatic brain injury.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

Asking about past coping mechanisms can provide valuable information, but in this situation, where the client is expressing thoughts of hopelessness, it's crucial to assess the immediate risk of suicide. Therefore, this choice is not the best option in this context.

Choice B rationale:

Involving significant others in the client's care is important, but it doesn't address the client's current emotional state and suicidal ideation. This choice does not take priority in this scenario.

Choice C rationale:

While exploring family history, including suicide, is relevant, it's not the first question to ask. Assessing the client's current thoughts and feelings should be the priority before delving into family history. Therefore, this choice is not the best option at this moment.

Choice D rationale:

(Correct Choice) This is the most appropriate question to ask first. Assessing the client's suicidal ideation is crucial for ensuring their safety. If the client expresses suicidal thoughts, the nurse can take immediate steps to keep the client safe, such as involving a mental health professional or initiating a suicide risk assessment.

A. Use the unit's fire extinguisher to attempt to put out the fire. B. Close all nearby windows and doors. C. Activate the facility's fire alarm system. D. Transport the client to another area of the nursing unit.

Correct Answer is D,C,B,A

Explanation

In the event of a fire, the nurse should prioritize safety and follow the facility’s emergency protocols, which typically align with the “RACE” acronym: Rescue: d. Transport the client to another area of the nursing unit. Ensure the client is safe from immediate danger. Alarm: c. Activate the facility’s fire alarm system. Alert others in the facility by activating the fire alarm. Confine: b. Close all nearby windows and doors. Prevent the spread of fire by closing doors and windows. Extinguish: a. Use the unit’s fire extinguisher to attempt to put out the fire. If it’s safe to do so, attempt to extinguish the fire using a fire extinguisher. Remember, the safety of the client and the nurse is the top priority. If the fire is too large or the situation too dangerous, the nurse should evacuate and wait for the fire department to handle the situation. Always follow the specific procedures of your healthcare facility.

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A nurse is caring for a client who experienced a traumatic brain injury 72 hr ago. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as a potential indication of increased intracranial pressure?

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A nurse is caring for a client who experienced a traumatic brain injury 72 hr ago.
Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as a potential indication of increased intracranial pressure?