A nurse is caring for a client with a temperature of 39°C (102.2°F) who presents with a stiff neck and photophobia. Which condition should the nurse suspect?
Meningitis.
Encephalitis.
Migraine.
Sinusitis.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
Meningitis presents with fever, stiff neck, and photophobia. It is an inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, often caused by infection.
Choice B rationale
Encephalitis involves inflammation of the brain itself, presenting with fever, headache, and altered mental status, but not specifically photophobia.
Choice C rationale
Migraine can cause photophobia and headache but is not typically associated with fever and stiff neck.
Choice D rationale
Sinusitis can cause fever and headache but not typically photophobia and stiff neck.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Meningococcal meningitis can present with a high fever (39°C or 102.2°F) and a rash, indicating a severe bacterial infection.
Choice B rationale
Urinary tract infections typically present with urinary symptoms, not a rash.
Choice C rationale
Gastroenteritis presents with gastrointestinal symptoms, not a rash.
Choice D rationale
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease and does not cause fever or rash.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Cerebral ischemia due to an embolus that originates in the left atrium is a common complication of chronic atrial fibrillation (AFib). AFib causes irregular and chaotic electrical signals in the atria, leading to poor blood flow and the formation of blood clots. These clots can travel to the brain, causing a stroke. This is the most acute and severe event associated with chronic AFib.
Choice B rationale
Development of ventricular fibrillation is a life-threatening arrhythmia that can occur in patients with severe heart disease, but it is not a common acute event in chronic AFib.
Ventricular fibrillation involves the ventricles and is characterized by rapid, erratic electrical impulses, leading to ineffective heart contractions and sudden cardiac arrest.
Choice C rationale
Ischemia of the cerebellum due to a ruptured intracranial aneurysm is not directly related to chronic AFib. While AFib increases the risk of stroke, it does not specifically cause aneurysms or cerebellar ischemia. Aneurysms are typically related to other risk factors such as hypertension and vascular abnormalities.
Choice D rationale
Prolonged capillary refill secondary to a complete lack of cardiac output is a sign of severe cardiac dysfunction or shock. While AFib can lead to heart failure and reduced cardiac output, it does not typically cause a complete lack of cardiac output. The most acute event related to AFib is the formation of emboli and subsequent stroke.
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.
