A nurse is educating a student about cerebral edema.
The student nurse inquires, “What type of cerebral edema is associated with a patient who has had a stroke?” Which of the following is the best response from the nurse?

Choice A rationale
Osmotic cerebral edema is a condition where water moves from the blood vessels into the brain due to changes in the concentration of particles in the blood. However, this is not the primary cause of cerebral edema in meningitis.
Choice B rationale

While inflammation can contribute to cerebral edema, it is not specific to the brain and does not affect the brain the most. In meningitis, the inflammation is primarily in the meninges, the membranes that cover the brain, and not the whole body.
Choice C rationale
Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) does flow from the intraventricular space to the interstitial area of the brain, but this is a normal process and does not cause cerebral edema. In meningitis, the inflammation of the meninges can disrupt the normal flow and absorption of CSF, leading to an accumulation of fluid and increased intracranial pressure.
Choice D rationale
In meningitis, the inflammation and immune response to the infection can lead to an increase in the permeability of the blood-brain barrier. This allows fluid and immune cells to enter the brain tissue, leading to cerebral edema. Additionally, the by-products of the pathogen that causes meningitis can directly damage the brain tissue and contribute to the edema.

Choice A rationale: Occupational exposure to pesticides, heavy metals, and industrial toxins is a known environmental risk factor for Parkinson’s disease. Work history helps identify neurotoxic exposure linked to disease onset.

Choice B rationale: Family history may suggest genetic predisposition, but idiopathic Parkinson’s is more often linked to environmental factors. Genetics play a role, but exposure history is more actionable during assessment.

Choice C rationale: Coffee intake has been inversely associated with Parkinson’s risk, but it’s not a diagnostic or causative factor. This question does not guide clinical assessment or identify potential exposures.

Choice D rationale: Timing of last physical may inform general health status but does not address etiology or risk factors specific to Parkinson’s disease. It lacks relevance to environmental or occupational exposure.