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A nurse is caring for a patient who has been admitted to the hospital with a suspected diagnosis of bacterial meningitis. Which diagnostic procedure should the nurse prepare the patient for?

A.

Lumbar puncture

B.

Skull radiography

C.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

D.

Computerized tomography (CT) scan

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

Choice A rationale
As with, a lumbar puncture is the primary diagnostic procedure for suspected bacterial meningitis. The other choices, while useful for detecting other conditions, are not as definitive for diagnosing bacterial meningitis.
Choice B rationale
As mentioned in the rationale for, Choice B, skull radiography is not typically used to diagnose bacterial meningitis.
Choice C rationale
As mentioned in the rationale for, Choice C, an MRI can provide detailed images of the brain and surrounding tissues, but it is not the primary tool for diagnosing bacterial meningitis.
Choice D rationale
As mentioned in the rationale for, Choice D, a CT scan can detect abnormalities in the brain, but it cannot definitively diagnose bacterial meningitis.
 


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Related Questions

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

C. Prepare ice packs for placement in the patient’s axillary area.This response is crucial because the symptoms described—muscle rigidity and hyperthermia—are indicative ofmalignant hyperthermia, a serious reaction that can occur after the administration of succinylcholine, especially in conjunction with certain anesthetics. Immediate cooling measures, such as applying ice packs, are essential to help reduce the patient's elevated body temperature.

Rationale for Other Options:

  • A. Call the PACU nurse to prepare for prolonged ventilatory support.: While preparing for ventilatory support may be necessary later, immediate action to address hyperthermia is critical.
  • B. Hold a prescription for dantrolene until the fever is reduced.: Dantrolene is the antidote for malignant hyperthermia and should be administered as soon as possible rather than held.
  • D. Determine if prescribed antibiotics were administered preoperatively.: This action is not relevant to the immediate management of malignant hyperthermia.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

C. Double vision.Double vision, or diplopia, can indicatephenytoin toxicity, which is a serious condition that may lead to impaired vision and increased risk of falls or injuries. This side effect suggests that the patient may be experiencing adverse reactions to the medication, necessitating prompt evaluation and intervention, such as checking serum phenytoin levels and possibly adjusting the medication regimen

2

6

.The other options do not require immediate intervention:

  • A. Chronic insomniais not a critical side effect of phenytoin and may be managed with lifestyle modifications or further assessment.
  • B. Puffy, bleeding gumsare common side effects associated with phenytoin (gingival hyperplasia) but are not immediately life-threatening.
  • D. Blood pressure 100/78 mm Hgis within normal limits and does not indicate a need for urgent action

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