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.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Prevent the client from harming herself or others. Withdrawal from alcohol can lead to autonomic hyperactivity and is most concerning when it involves seizures, deliriums tremens, and hallucinations which can be potentially life-threatening. Therefore, the nurse's priority when caring for a client experiencing alcohol withdrawal is to prevent harm to the client by implementing seizure precautions and monitoring the client's vital signs.
Choice A, identifying the use of defense mechanisms, is an important aspect of treatment but can be addressed later.
Choice C, supporting the client's coping skills, is not a priority intervention.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The nurse should determine the patient's triage level and examine and stabilize the patient as needed when caring for a patient without health insurance who is limping and dripping blood from a head wound in the Emergency department. This intervention is the priority because the patient could be at risk of life-threatening complications if their condition is left untreated. Giving the patient information about facilities that specialize in treating people without health insurance, choice B, and asking the patient to sign in and provide method of payment for services, choice C, may be necessary but are not the priority at this time. Transferring the patient to a hospital that specializes in traumatic brain injuries, choice D, may be necessary after stabilizing the patient, but it is not the priority at this time.
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