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 C
Explanation
The nurse should determine the presence and degree of suicidal risk when caring for a client who has a depressive disorder, is in alcohol withdrawal, and reports a recent job loss. This intervention is the priority because the client is at increased risk of suicidal ideation or behavior due to the combination of depression, alcohol withdrawal, and recent job loss. Identifying support groups in the community for long-term treatment.
choice A and referring the client to a mental health care provider for evaluation and treatment.
choice D are important interventions but are not the priority at this time. Assisting the client to identify the negative effects of chemical dependency.
choice B may be necessary but does not address the priority concern of suicidal risk.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
When a client is experiencing alcohol withdrawal, seizures are a common finding. Benzodiazepines are the preferred medications for alcohol withdrawal, and they are used to prevent seizures and treat symptoms of anxiety, agitation, and autonomic hyperactivity. Stuporous level of consciousness (Choice A), pathological changes on a CT scan (Choice C), and bradycardia (Choice D) are unlikely findings in a client experiencing alcohol withdrawal. Stuporous level of consciousness is more indicative of acute brain dysfunction or coma. CT scan findings may indicate structural brain injury, such as a brain tumor or stroke. Bradycardia is not a common finding in alcohol withdrawal but may occur in severe cases. However, tachycardia is a more common finding.
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