A nurse is caring for a client who has a T-4 spinal cord injury. Which of the following client findings should the nurse identify as an indication the client is at risk for experiencing autonomic dysreflexia?
The client's bladder becomes distended.
The client states having a severe headache.
The client's blood pressure becomes elevated.
The client states having nasal congestion.
Correct Answer : A,B,C,D
Choice A Reason: A distended bladder is one of the most common triggers of autonomic dysreflexia, which is a life-threatening condition that occurs in clients with spinal cord injuries above T-6. The bladder becomes overfilled and stimulates the sympathetic nervous system, causing vasoconstriction and hypertension.
Choice B Reason: A severe headache is one of the most common symptoms of autonomic dysreflexia, caused by the increased blood pressure in the brain. The headache may be accompanied by blurred vision, sweating, flushing, or anxiety.
Choice C Reason: An elevated blood pressure is the hallmark sign of autonomic dysreflexia, which can reach dangerously high levels and cause stroke, seizure, or death. The blood pressure may rise up to 300/160 mmHg or higher.
Choice D Reason: Nasal congestion is another possible trigger of autonomic dysreflexia, as it stimulates the nasal mucosa and activates the sympathetic nervous system. Other potential triggers include bowel impaction, skin irritation, tight clothing, or temperature changes.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A Reason: A facial tumor is not related to Guillain-Barre syndrome, which is an autoimmune disorder that affects the peripheral nerves.
Choice B Reason: Pregnancy is not a risk factor for Guillain-Barre syndrome, although it can occur during or after pregnancy in rare cases.
Choice C Reason: A puncture wound 3 weeks ago is unlikely to cause Guillain-Barre syndrome, which usually follows a respiratory or gastrointestinal infection.
Choice D Reason: This is the correct answer because cytomegalovirus is one of the common infections that can trigger Guillain-Barre syndrome. It can cause inflammation and damage to the myelin sheath that covers the nerves.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is incorrect because administering IV ketorolac is not a priority intervention for a client with cholecystitis. Ketorolac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that can cause gastrointestinal bleeding and kidney damage, which are contraindicated in cholecystitis. The nurse should administer analgesics as prescribed, but only after assessing the pain level and severity.
Choice B reason: This is incorrect because reporting findings to healthcare provider is not a priority intervention for a client with cholecystitis. The nurse should communicate with the healthcare provider about the client's condition and treatment plan, but only after assessing the pain level and other vital signs.
Choice C reason: This is incorrect because offering a high-calorie, high-fat meal is not an intervention for a client with cholecystitis, but a potential trigger. High-fat foods can stimulate the gallbladder to contract and cause more pain and inflammation. The nurse should advise the client to avoid fatty foods and follow a low-fat diet.
Choice D reason: This is the correct answer because assessing the pain level is a priority intervention for a client with cholecystitis. Pain is the most common symptom of cholecystitis and can indicate the severity and complications of the condition. The nurse should assess the pain level using a numeric or descriptive scale, and monitor for changes in location, intensity, and duration.
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