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 A
Explanation
This statement should be included in the change-of-shift report because it provides vital information about the patient’s condition and any changes that have occurred to the patient during the shift.
Statement B is wrong because it does not provide relevant information about the patient’s current condition or changes that have occurred during the shift. Statement C is wrong because it does not provide relevant information about the patient’s medical condition. Statement D is wrong because it does not provide new information about changes that have occurred during the shift.
Change-of-shift reports are key to inpatient care because they provide vital information about and responsibility for the patient from the off-going provider to the on-coming provider.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The first action the nurse should take in this situation is to assess the client's condition for any injuries or signs of distress. Therefore, the nurse should measure the client's vital signs to determine if there are any immediate concerns such as hypotension or tachycardia. After ensuring the client's safety and addressing any immediate needs, the nurse should complete an incident report and document the fall in the client's medical record. The provider may also need to be notified depending on the severity of the fall and any resulting injuries.
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