A nurse is caring for a client who sustained a basal skull fracture. When performing morning hygiene care, the nurse notices a thin stream of clear drainage coming from out of the client's right nostril. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Test the drainage for glucose.
Take the client's temperature.
Notify the charge nurse.
Place a dressing under the client's nose.
The Correct Answer is A
The first action the nurse should take is to test the drainage for glucose. Clear drainage from the nose following a basal skull fracture could indicate a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak. CSF contains glucose, so testing the drainage for glucose can help determine if it is CSF.
b. Taking the client's temperature is not the first action the nurse should take.
c. Notifying the charge nurse is important but not the first action the nurse should take.
d. Placing a dressing under the client's nose is not the first action the nurse should take.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A nurse collecting data from a client who is 6 days post craniotomy for removal of an intracerebral aneurysm should monitor the client for hypertension as a manifestation of increased intracranial pressure. Increased intracranial pressure can cause changes in blood pressure, including hypertension.
a. Peripheral edema is not a manifestation of increased intracranial pressure. Peripheral edema is swelling in the extremities and can be caused by a variety of conditions.
b. Diarrhea is not a manifestation of increased intracranial pressure. Diarrhea is loose or watery stools and
can be caused by a variety of conditions.
c. Decreased pedal pulses are not a manifestation of increased intracranial pressure. Decreased pedal
pulses can indicate poor circulation to the feet and can be caused by a variety of conditions.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C"]
Explanation
The nurse should identify absence of pulse, altered sensation of the toes, and cool skin as possible manifestations of compartment syndrome. Compartment syndrome is a serious condition that can occur following surgery or injury. It is characterized by increased pressure within a muscle compartment that can lead to decreased blood flow and nerve damage.
Pain relieved by narcotics and capillary refill of 1 second are not manifestations of compartment syndrome. Pain relieved by narcotics is a normal response to pain medication. Capillary refill of 1 second is within the normal range and does not indicate compartment syndrome.
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