A nurse is caring for a patient who has a traumatic brain injury. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as an indication of increased intracranial pressure (ICP)?
Amnesia.
Tachycardia.
Altered level of consciousness.
Hypotension.
The Correct Answer is C
Altered level of consciousness (LOC). Increased ICP can cause decreased LOC or changes in mental status, including confusion, agitation, or coma.
Options A, amnesia, and B, tachycardia, are not necessarily indicative of increased ICP, while option D, hypotension, is actually a sign of decreased ICP. Monitoring for elevated ICP is critical in patients with traumatic brain injury, and early recognition and intervention can be lifesaving. The nurse should report any changes in the patient's level of consciousness or other neurological symptoms to the provider immediately.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Moderate. According to the Mayo Clinic moderate anxiety is characterized by symptoms such as loud and rapid speech, difficulty concentrating, restlessness, and increased worry. The client's behavior matches these symptoms, indicating that they are experiencing moderate anxiety.
Choice B. Panic is incorrect because panic is a severe form of anxiety that involves symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, trembling, and a sense of impending doom. The client does not exhibit these symptoms.
Choice C. Severe is incorrect because severe anxiety is marked by symptoms such as irrational fear, detachment from reality, hallucinations, and loss of control¹². The client does not show these symptoms.
Choice D. Mild is incorrect because mild anxiety is associated with symptoms such as nervousness, increased alertness, and slight discomfort¹². The client's symptoms are more intense than mild anxiety.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A therapeutic response to the client's statement would be to acknowledge that the client feels helpless about the behavior. The nurse should avoid judging or criticizing the client and instead focus on offering support and empathy.
Options A and B are not therapeutic because they are confrontational and may make the client defensive. Option C is a well-intentioned but empty statement that does not offer any practical support or guidance to the client.
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