A nurse is caring for an adolescent who was brought to the emergency department (ED) with a fever, headache, and neck stiffness. The nurse should determine the assessment findings are consistent with which of the following disease processes?
Bacterial meningitis
Encephalitis
Gastroenteritis
Migraine
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: Bacterial meningitis is an inflammation of the meninges, the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord, caused by a bacterial infection. It can cause fever, headache, neck stiffness, photophobia, and altered mental status. The cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis may show increased white blood cells, protein, and glucose. The nurse should assess the neck range of motion and the reaction to pupil assessment, as these may indicate increased intracranial pressure.
Choice B reason: Encephalitis is an inflammation of the brain tissue, usually caused by a viral infection. It can cause fever, headache, confusion, seizures, and focal neurological deficits. The CSF analysis may show increased white blood cells and protein, but normal glucose. The nurse should assess the level of consciousness and the neurological status, as these may indicate brain damage.
Choice C reason: Gastroenteritis is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines, usually caused by a viral or bacterial infection. It can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and dehydration. The nurse should assess the gastrointestinal manifestations and the vital signs, as these may indicate fluid and electrolyte imbalance.
Choice D reason: Migraine is a type of headache that involves recurrent episodes of moderate to severe pain, usually on one side of the head, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. The nurse should assess the location and duration of pain, the triggers and relievers, and the history of migraine. The CSF analysis is usually normal.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Placing the client in a private room is not necessary for a client who has a high WBC count, unless they have other indications for isolation, such as an infectious disease. A high WBC count may indicate inflammation, infection, or other conditions that affect the immune system.
Choice B reason: Monitoring the client's temperature every 4 hr is an appropriate action for a nurse to take for a client who has a high WBC count. A fever is a common sign of infection or inflammation, and it may require further intervention, such as antibiotics or antipyretics.
Choice C reason: Administering an antihistamine as prescribed is not related to a high WBC count. Antihistamines are used to treat allergic reactions, which may cause a low WBC count due to the release of histamine from mast cells.
Choice D reason: Encouraging the client to increase fluid intake is not specific to a high WBC count. Fluid intake should be based on the client's hydration status, urine output, and other factors. Increasing fluid intake may help flush out toxins or bacteria, but it is not a priority action for a client who has a high WBC count.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Maintaining the infant in the supine position is not an appropriate intervention, as it can increase the pressure on the myelomeningocele sac and cause further damage to the spinal cord. The nurse should position the infant prone or side-lying, with the head turned to one side and the hips flexed.
Choice B reason: Limiting visitors to immediate family members is not a necessary intervention, as the infant does not have an infectious condition that requires isolation. The nurse should encourage the parents and other family members to visit and bond with the infant, and provide emotional support and education.
Choice C reason: Initiating contact precautions is not a required intervention, as the infant does not have a contagious condition that poses a risk of transmission to others. The nurse should follow standard precautions, such as washing hands, wearing gloves, and disposing of contaminated materials properly.
Choice D reason: Providing a latex-free environment is an essential intervention, as the infant has a high risk of developing a latex allergy due to the frequent exposure to latex products during surgery and other procedures. The nurse should avoid using latex gloves, catheters, syringes, bandages, or other items that contain latex, and use alternative materials instead. The nurse should also label the infant's chart, crib, and door with a latex allergy alert.
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