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?

 

The correct answer is: b. A room containing personal belongings.

Choice A rationale: A room without a window may lead to disorientation and a lack of natural light, which can disrupt the client's circadian rhythm, contributing to sleep disturbances and mood alterations. Adequate exposure to natural light helps regulate the body's internal clock and promotes a sense of well-being. Furthermore, natural light exposure has been linked to improved cognitive function and mood stability in individuals with cognitive impairments. Therefore, choosing a room with a window is essential for optimizing the client's therapeutic environment.

Choice B rationale: A room containing personal belongings is crucial for creating a therapeutic environment for a cognitively impaired client. Familiar items provide a sense of security and continuity, reducing anxiety and agitation. These belongings serve as anchors to the client's past experiences and identity, facilitating reminiscence therapy and promoting emotional connection. By surrounding the client with familiar objects, the nurse fosters a sense of autonomy and self-expression, empowering the client to engage in meaningful activities and maintain a sense of personal agency.

Choice C rationale: While proximity to the nursing station may facilitate monitoring and prompt intervention in case of emergencies, a room adjacent to the nursing station can also expose the client to constant noise and disruptions. Excessive auditory stimuli can overwhelm a cognitively impaired individual, leading to sensory overload and exacerbating confusion and disorientation. Moreover, the lack of privacy in such a location may compromise the client's dignity and autonomy, hindering their ability to engage in personal activities and interactions. Therefore, placing the client in a quieter, more secluded environment away from the nursing station is preferable for promoting a therapeutic atmosphere conducive to rest and relaxation.

Choice D rationale: Dim lighting poses significant risks for cognitively impaired clients, as it impairs visual perception and increases the likelihood of accidents and falls. Inadequate lighting compromises safety by obscuring obstacles and hazards in the environment, heightening the risk of injuries and fractures. Additionally, dimly lit spaces can exacerbate feelings of fear and anxiety, particularly in individuals with cognitive impairments who may already experience sensory processing difficulties. Bright lighting, on the other hand, enhances visibility and spatial orientation, promoting independence and confidence in daily activities. Therefore, ensuring sufficient illumination in the client's room is essential for mitigating safety hazards and optimizing their overall well-being.

The correct answer is choiceC. “Have your child drink a small glass of water after swallowing the medication.”

Choice A rationale:

Adding digoxin to a half-cup of juice is not recommended because it can affect the absorption of the medication.It is best to give digoxin on an empty stomach or with a small amount of food if necessary.

Choice B rationale:

Limiting potassium intake is incorrect.In fact, maintaining adequate potassium levels is important because low potassium levels can increase the risk of digoxin toxicity.

Choice C rationale:

Having the child drink a small glass of water after taking the medication helps ensure that the medication is swallowed completely and reduces the risk of esophageal irritation.

Choice D rationale:

Repeating the dose if the child vomits within 1 hour is not recommended. If a dose is vomited, it should not be repeated to avoid the risk of overdose.The next dose should be given at the regular scheduled time.