A nurse is collecting neurologic data on a client who has a neurological injury and notes changes suggestive of Cushing's Triad. The nurse understands that Cushing's Triad is a nervous system response that might prevent which of the following conditions?
Tachycardia
Agonal breathing
Chest pain
Brainstem ischemia
The Correct Answer is D
Cushing's Triad is a set of three classic signs associated with increased intracranial pressure (ICP). These signs include hypertension, bradycardia, and irregular respirations. The presence of Cushing's Triad indicates severe brain injury or increased ICP, often leading to brainstem compression.
A. Tachycardia (Option A): Increased intracranial pressure can initially lead to tachycardia as the body attempts to compensate for the changes. However, as ICP continues to rise and brainstem compression occurs, the sympathetic response diminishes, resulting in bradycardia rather than tachycardia. Therefore, Cushing's Triad is not associated with preventing tachycardia.
B. Agonal breathing (Option B): Agonal breathing, characterized by gasping, labored breathing, or irregular breathing patterns, may occur as a result of brainstem dysfunction or damage. Cushing's Triad, indicative of increased ICP and impending brainstem herniation, does not prevent agonal breathing. In fact, irregular respirations are part of Cushing's Triad.
C. Chest pain (Option C): Chest pain may occur due to various cardiac or respiratory conditions and is not directly related to Cushing's Triad or increased intracranial pressure. Therefore, Cushing's Triad does not prevent chest pain.
D. Brainstem ischemia (Option D): Increased intracranial pressure can lead to brainstem compression, compromising blood flow to the brainstem and resulting in brainstem ischemia. Cushing's Triad, characterized by hypertension, bradycardia, and irregular respirations, is a nervous system response indicative of severe brain injury or increased ICP, which can lead to brainstem ischemia if left untreated. Therefore, Cushing's Triad is associated with brainstem ischemia rather than preventing it.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","C"]
Explanation
A. Limit exercise to 10 min, 2 days per week. This recommendation is incorrect. Regular physical activity is essential for heart health. The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise per week, spread throughout the week.
B. Monitor blood pressure This recommendation is correct. Monitoring blood pressure is an essential aspect of heart disease prevention. High blood pressure (hypertension) is a significant risk factor for heart disease, so regular monitoring allows for early detection and management.
C. Lose weight if necessary. This recommendation is correct. Maintaining a healthy weight or losing weight if overweight or obese is important for heart disease prevention. Excess weight, especially around the abdomen, increases the risk of heart disease and other health conditions.
D. Eat a diet high in saturated fats. This recommendation is incorrect. A diet high in saturated fats is associated with an increased risk of heart disease. Instead, the nurse should encourage a heart-healthy diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
E. Maintain current cholesterol level This recommendation is not entirely accurate. While maintaining healthy cholesterol levels is important for heart health, individuals with high cholesterol levels may need to take steps to lower their cholesterol through lifestyle modifications and, in some cases, medication. Therefore, simply maintaining current cholesterol levels may not be sufficient for heart disease prevention.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. "I stopped taking aspirin last week.": Stopping aspirin medication prior to surgery is often advised to reduce the risk of bleeding during and after the procedure. The nurse may confirm the timing of discontinuation with the client and verify if any other anticoagulant medications are being taken.
B. "I did not put my contact lenses in this morning.": Removing contact lenses before surgery is a routine precaution to prevent potential corneal abrasions or complications during the procedure. This statement indicates the client is following preoperative instructions.
C. "I took my blood pressure meds with a sip of water.": Taking blood pressure medications with a small amount of water is generally acceptable before surgery. However, the nurse may verify the specific medications the client is taking and their dosing schedule to ensure compliance.
D. "I had a cough and runny nose a couple days ago.": This statement requires further investigation as respiratory symptoms, such as cough and runny nose, may indicate an underlying respiratory infection. Infections can increase the risk of complications during surgery, such as anesthesia-related respiratory issues or postoperative infections. The nurse should assess the severity and duration of the symptoms, inquire about any fever or recent exposure to illnesses, and consider notifying the surgical team for further evaluation and decision-making regarding the client's surgical readiness.
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