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 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.

Choice A rationale:

The described cardiac rhythm with a wavy baseline, no distinguishable P waves, and an increased heart rate is consistent with atrial fibrillation. In atrial fibrillation, the atria quiver instead of contracting effectively, leading to an irregular and often rapid heart rate. This rhythm is characterized by the absence of distinct P waves on the ECG.

Choice B rationale:

Ventricular asystole is a flatline on the ECG, indicating the absence of electrical activity in the heart. It is a life-threatening arrhythmia and requires immediate intervention with cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) protocols.

Choice C rationale:

Second-degree heart block is characterized by intermittent failure of atrial electrical impulses to conduct to the ventricles. This results in occasional dropped beats and a varying heart rate. It is not consistent with the described ECG findings in the question.

Choice D rationale:

Sinus tachycardia is a regular, fast heart rate originating from the sinoatrial (SA) node. In sinus tachycardia, P waves are present, indicating that the electrical impulses originate in the SA node. The described ECG findings do not match the characteristics of sinus tachycardia.