A nurse is caring for a patient who was involved in a motor vehicle accident.The patient is alert and oriented and reports a loss of consciousness immediately after the accident.
Which of the following additional symptoms should the nurse assess the patient for? (Select All that Apply.)
Pupillary dilation
Persistent headache
Presence of hand tremors
Difficulty waking
Foot drop
Correct Answer : A,B,D
Choice A rationale
Pupillary dilation can be a sign of increased intracranial pressure, which could be a result of a traumatic brain injury following a motor vehicle accident. It’s important to assess for this symptom as it may indicate a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention.
Choice B rationale
Persistent headache is a common symptom following a head injury and can be a sign of a concussion or more serious brain injury. It’s crucial to monitor for this symptom as it can provide important information about the patient’s condition.
Choice C rationale
Presence of hand tremors is not typically associated with a head injury from a motor vehicle accident. While tremors can be a symptom of various neurological conditions, they are not commonly seen immediately after a traumatic head injury.
Choice D rationale
Difficulty waking can be a sign of a serious head injury. It could indicate a concussion or other type of traumatic brain injury. This symptom should be closely monitored as it may require immediate medical intervention.
Choice E rationale
Foot drop is not typically a symptom observed immediately after a motor vehicle accident. It’s more commonly associated with peripheral nerve conditions or stroke, rather than a head injury.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Maintaining the head of the bed between 30 and 45 degrees is a common intervention for a patient at risk of cerebral aneurysm rupture. This position can help reduce intracranial pressure and promote venous drainage from the brain.
Choice B rationale
Administering hypotonic intravenous solutions is not typically recommended for patients at risk of cerebral aneurysm rupture. Hypotonic solutions can lead to cerebral edema, which can increase intracranial pressure and potentially contribute to aneurysm rupture.
Choice C rationale
Keeping lights at a medium level in the evening is not a specific intervention for patients at risk of cerebral aneurysm rupture. While maintaining a comfortable and restful environment is important, there’s no evidence to suggest that the level of lighting has a direct impact on the risk of aneurysm rupture.
Choice D rationale
Repositioning the patient every shift is a standard nursing intervention to prevent pressure ulcers and promote comfort. However, it is not a specific intervention for patients at risk of cerebral aneurysm rupture.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
A patient in the intensive care unit who was admitted with severe head trauma and cerebral edema, who opens their eyes spontaneously, is oriented, and obeys commands, would be experiencing a decline in their condition if they become confused. Confusion can be a sign of worsening brain function, indicating that the brain is not receiving enough oxygen or is being affected by a buildup of toxins. This could be due to increased intracranial pressure, decreased blood flow to the brain, or further injury to the brain tissue.
Choice B rationale
Mumbling inappropriate words can also be a sign of a decline in a patient’s condition. However, it is less specific than confusion. It could be due to a variety of factors, including medication side effects, sleep deprivation, or mental health issues.
Choice C rationale
If a patient’s eyes do not open to their name, it could indicate a significant decline in their condition. However, this is a more severe symptom than confusion and may not be the first sign of a decline.
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