A nurse is collecting data from a client who is 6 days post craniotomy for removal of an intracerebral aneurysm. The nurse should monitor the client for which of the following manifestations of increased intracranial pressure?
Peripheral edema
Diarrhea
Decreased pedal pulses
Hypertension
The Correct Answer is D
A nurse collecting data from a client who is 6 days post craniotomy for removal of an intracerebral aneurysm should monitor the client for hypertension as a manifestation of increased intracranial pressure. Increased intracranial pressure can cause changes in blood pressure, including hypertension.
a. Peripheral edema is not a manifestation of increased intracranial pressure. Peripheral edema is swelling in the extremities and can be caused by a variety of conditions.
b. Diarrhea is not a manifestation of increased intracranial pressure. Diarrhea is loose or watery stools and
can be caused by a variety of conditions.
c. Decreased pedal pulses are not a manifestation of increased intracranial pressure. Decreased pedal
pulses can indicate poor circulation to the feet and can be caused by a variety of conditions.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The first action the nurse should take is to test the drainage for glucose. Clear drainage from the nose following a basal skull fracture could indicate a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak. CSF contains glucose, so testing the drainage for glucose can help determine if it is CSF.
b. Taking the client's temperature is not the first action the nurse should take.
c. Notifying the charge nurse is important but not the first action the nurse should take.
d. Placing a dressing under the client's nose is not the first action the nurse should take.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
a. Auscultation of lungs revealing wheezing is not related to venous return in the affected arm. Wheezing is
a high-pitched whistling sound made while breathing and is usually a sign of a respiratory problem.
b.A bounding distal pulse indicates strong arterial blood flow, which is not a sign of impaired venous return. Impaired venous return would more likely result in a weak or absent pulse.
c. Fever could indicate infection but is not specific to impaired venous return. It's a systemic sign that may or may not be related to the cast or the fracture.
d. Pain that is unrelieved by opioid analgesics can be a sign of compartment syndrome, which is a serious complication that can result from impaired venous return and increased pressure within the muscle compartments. This requires immediate medical attention to prevent permanent damage.
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