A nurse is caring for an 84-year-old female client in her home and is discussing caregiver stress with the client’s daughter.

Exhibits

Select the 3 statements that the nurse should include when discussing caregiver stress with the client’s daughter.

Choice A rationale

Placing a client with a head injury in the lateral Trendelenburg position is not recommended due to the risk of increasing intracranial pressure (ICP). This position can impede venous outflow from the brain, thereby exacerbating cerebral edema and ICP. Additionally, it can compromise the airway and lead to aspiration, especially in a client who is vomiting. Proper positioning, such as elevating the head of the bed to 30 degrees, is more appropriate to facilitate venous drainage and reduce ICP while protecting the airway. This choice is scientifically unsound and potentially harmful.

Choice B rationale

Scheduling a repeat CT scan is a critical intervention in this case. The client's condition has changed, evidenced by the onset of projectile vomiting and a dilated, non-reactive left pupil, both signs of potential increased ICP and possible brain herniation. A repeat CT scan will help identify any new or worsening intracranial pathology such as bleeding, swelling, or other changes that were not present initially. Timely imaging is essential for appropriate management and to guide further treatment decisions.

Choice C rationale

Inserting a second large bore IV catheter is vital for ensuring rapid access for fluids, medications, and possible blood products in the event of an acute deterioration. This is especially important in a neurologically unstable client. Having multiple IV access points allows for efficient administration of necessary treatments without delay, which can be crucial in managing worsening intracranial conditions and other emergent needs.

Choice D rationale

While applying artificial tear drops to the left eye might seem beneficial for preventing corneal dryness in a client who cannot blink, it does not address the acute neurological concerns indicated by the pupil changes and vomiting. This intervention is more supportive rather than urgent or diagnostic. The primary focus should be on identifying and managing the underlying cause of the client's deterioration, not on symptom management alone.

Choice E rationale

Repeating the Glasgow coma assessment is necessary to monitor any changes in the client's neurological status. Regular assessment helps track the progression or improvement of the client’s condition, guiding clinical decisions. The change in pupil response and vomiting suggests potential worsening, necessitating continuous and frequent reassessments. Prompt detection of deterioration can lead to quicker intervention and potentially better outcomes.

Choice A rationale: Hemoglobin of 9.3 g/dL indicates that the client has anemia, likely due to blood loss from the injury. This low hemoglobin level suggests significant bleeding, which needs to be addressed to ensure adequate oxygen delivery to tissues during surgery.

Choice B rationale: Prothrombin time of 11.5 seconds is within the normal range and does not indicate a critical issue that needs to be addressed before surgery. It suggests that the client's blood clotting mechanism is functioning properly.

Choice C rationale: Blood pressure of 90/48 mm Hg indicates hypotension, which is a sign of shock or significant blood loss. It is critical to stabilize the client's blood pressure to ensure adequate perfusion to vital organs during surgery.

Choice D rationale: Heart rate of 110 beats/minute is elevated, which may be a response to pain, anxiety, or hypovolemia. While it is important to monitor, it is not as critical as addressing the hypotension and anemia before surgery.

Choice E rationale: Abdominal distention indicates potential internal bleeding or injury to abdominal organs. This needs to be addressed urgently, as it can lead to further complications and affect the outcome of the surgery.