A nurse is caring for a client who is newly diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. The client states, “I have no idea why I got this.” Which of the following is the most important question the nurse should ask this client while performing the assessment?

Choice A Reason: Cerebral edema is caused by cerebrospinal fluid flowing from the intraventricular space to the interstitial area of the brain

This statement is not accurate. Cerebral edema in meningitis is not primarily caused by the flow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from the intraventricular space to the interstitial area. Instead, it is more related to the inflammatory response triggered by the infection.

Choice B Reason: Cerebral edema is caused by osmotic cerebral edema

Osmotic cerebral edema occurs when there is an imbalance in the osmotic pressure, leading to fluid accumulation in the brain. However, this is not the primary mechanism in meningitis. The edema in meningitis is more related to the inflammatory response and the by-products of the pathogen.

Choice C Reason: Cerebral edema is caused by the by-products of the pathogen that causes the meningitis

This statement is the most accurate. In meningitis, the infection triggers an inflammatory response, leading to the release of various by-products such as cytokines and other inflammatory mediators. These substances increase the permeability of the blood-brain barrier, resulting in fluid leakage and cerebral edema.

Choice D Reason: Cerebral edema is caused by whole body inflammation which affects the brain the most

While systemic inflammation can contribute to cerebral edema, the primary cause in meningitis is the localized inflammatory response in the brain and meninges. The by-products of the pathogen and the resulting inflammation are the main factors leading to cerebral edema.

Choice A Reason:

The large intestine does not secrete enzymes to digest food. This function is primarily carried out by the stomach and small intestine. The large intestine’s main role is to absorb water and electrolytes from the remaining indigestible food matter.

Choice B Reason:

This is the correct answer. The large intestine absorbs water from the remaining indigestible food matter, which helps to form stool. This process is crucial for maintaining the body’s fluid balance and for the proper formation and excretion of feces.

Choice C Reason:

Preventing the reflux of food into the esophagus is a function of the lower esophageal sphincter, not the large intestine. The large intestine’s role is more focused on absorbing water and electrolytes and forming stool.

Choice D Reason:

The large intestine does not produce vitamin D. Vitamin D is primarily synthesized in the skin upon exposure to sunlight and can also be obtained from certain foods and supplements. The large intestine does, however, play a role in the absorption of some vitamins produced by gut bacteria, such as vitamin K.