A nurse is caring for a client who was admitted for observation following a head injury. Which of the following findings by the nurse indicates the client is experiencing increased intracranial pressure?
Pin-point pupils
Irritability
Pallor
Decreased blood pressure
The Correct Answer is B
A. Pinpoint pupils are more commonly associated with opioid intoxication or damage to the pons rather than increased intracranial pressure (ICP). Increased ICP typically causes pupils to become dilated and sluggish or nonreactive to light
B. Irritability can be an early sign of increased intracranial pressure. As pressure within the skull rises, it can affect the brain's ability to function normally, leading to changes in behavior such as restlessness, agitation, or irritability.
C. Pallor is not directly associated with increased intracranial pressure. It might indicate other issues such as anemia or poor circulation, but it is not a specific sign of increased ICP.
D. Increased intracranial pressure typically leads to hypertension (increased blood pressure) as part of the Cushing's triad, which includes hypertension, bradycardia, and irregular respirations. Decreased blood pressure would not be a typical finding associated with increased ICP.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The client is experiencing palpitations and a sense of impending doom, which may indicate a heightened state of anxiety or a panic attack. Minimizing environmental stimuli can help create a calming and safe environment for the client. By reducing noise, bright lights, and other potentially distressing stimuli, the nurse can create a more soothing atmosphere that may help alleviate the client's anxiety.
While exploring behaviors that have helped to reduce the client's anxiety in the past and explaining to the client that anxiety causes physical manifestations are important actions, they may not provide immediate relief or address the client's immediate distress.
Administering an anti-anxiety medication may be considered if the client's symptoms persist or worsen, but it is not the first action to be taken. The nurse should prioritize non-pharmacological interventions and create a supportive environment before considering medication administration.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Hepatitis A is primarily transmitted through the fecal-oral route, often due to contaminated food or water. However, it can also spread through close personal contact, including sharing towels, utensils, or other personal items. By using different hand towels than others in the home, the client demonstrates an understanding of the importance of preventing the transmission of the virus.
While hand hygiene is essential in preventing the spread of infectious diseases, including hepatitis A, alcohol-based cleansers are not effective against the hepatitis A virus. Washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is the recommended method to remove the virus from the hands.
Hepatitis A can be spread through contaminated food, so it is important for the client to avoid preparing food for others during the acute phase of the illness and until cleared by a healthcare professional.
Hepatitis A is not typically transmitted through contact with blood. It is primarily transmitted through the fecal-oral route or close personal contact with an infected individual.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.