A nurse is caring for a patient in the intensive care unit who was admitted with severe head trauma and cerebral edema. The patient opens their eyes spontaneously, is oriented, and obeys commands.Which of the following findings indicate the patient is experiencing a decline in their condition?

Choice A rationale
Rebleeding of the injury is a significant factor related to a high mortality rate for a client who has a subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). SAH is a devastating event with substantial mortality and high morbidity among survivors. The most common primary causes of death or neurological devastation leading to withdrawal of support are direct effects of the primary hemorrhage (55%) and aneurysm rebleeding (17%)2. Therefore, rebleeding of the injury is a critical concern in the management of SAH.
Choice B rationale
Decreased cerebrospinal fluid is not directly linked to a high mortality rate in SAH. While changes in cerebrospinal fluid dynamics can occur after SAH, it’s not typically a primary factor contributing to mortality.
Choice C rationale
The use of nimodipine is actually part of the treatment protocol for SAH. Nimodipine is a calcium channel blocker that is used to prevent cerebral vasospasm, a complication of SAH. It does not contribute to a higher mortality rate.
Choice D rationale
Poor functional ability could be a result of SAH due to neurological damage, but it is not a direct cause of high mortality. The severity of the initial hemorrhage and subsequent

complications like rebleeding or medical complications are more directly tied to mortality rates.

Choice A rationale
While traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can occur at any age, people in their 30s are not at the highest risk. Other factors, such as participation in high-risk activities or certain occupations, can increase the risk of TBI, but age alone in this group does not confer a higher risk.
Choice B rationale
People who play contact sports are at a higher risk of sustaining a TBI. Contact sports such as football, boxing, and hockey have a high incidence of TBIs, including concussions.
Choice C rationale
Abstaining from alcohol does not increase the risk of TBI. In fact, alcohol use is a risk factor for TBI, as it can increase the likelihood of falls, car accidents, and other events that can cause TBI1112.
Choice D rationale
Living in rural areas does not inherently increase the risk of TBI. However, certain factors associated with rural living, such as increased travel distances and limited access to trauma

care, can contribute to the severity of a TBI once it occurs. Subarachnoid hemorrhageSubarachnoid hemorrhage Explore