A nurse is monitoring a client who has a leaking cerebral aneurysm. Which of the following manifestations should indicate to the nurse that the client is experiencing an increase in intracranial pressure (ICP)? (Select all that apply.)
Pupillary changes
Disorientation
Headache
Slurred speech
Neck pain and stiffness
Correct Answer : A,B,C,D
Choice A reason : Pupillary changes, such as unequal pupil sizes or a sluggish reaction to light, can be a sign of increased ICP. The cranial nerves that control the pupils may be compressed due to the swelling of the brain, leading to these changes¹.
Choice B reason : Disorientation, including confusion and changes in alertness, can occur with increased ICP as the pressure affects the brain's ability to process information and maintain consciousness².
Choice C reason : Headache is a common symptom of increased ICP. It can be severe and persistent due to the pressure exerted on the meninges and blood vessels within the brain³.
Choice D reason : Slurred speech may result from increased ICP if the areas of the brain responsible for speech and muscle control are affected by the pressure².
Choice E reason : Neck pain and stiffness, particularly when trying to flex the neck forward, can be indicative of meningeal irritation, which can be associated with increased ICP⁴.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason : Individuals with OCD often engage in compulsive behaviors, such as picking up after others, to make their environment feel more controlled or tolerable. This behavior is a response to the anxiety produced by their obsessions, which in this case, could be related to cleanliness or order¹. By controlling their immediate environment, they may feel a temporary relief from their anxiety, even though this relief is often short-lived and the compulsion becomes a repetitive cycle².
Choice B reason : Changing tasks is not typically the goal of compulsive behaviors in OCD. These behaviors are usually very specific and are performed to manage the anxiety associated with particular obsessions. While the individual might switch from one compulsive behavior to another, it is not done with the intention of task variation but rather as a response to shifting obsessive thoughts¹.
Choice C reason : Compulsive behaviors in OCD are not aimed at increasing social interaction. In fact, these behaviors can often interfere with social activities and relationships, as they can be time-consuming and may make the individual feel embarrassed or ashamed, leading to social isolation².
Choice D reason : Compulsive behaviors can sometimes be a way for individuals with OCD to exert control over other behaviors or thoughts. However, the primary function of these behaviors is to manage the anxiety associated with obsessions, not necessarily to control other unrelated behaviors¹.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason : Headaches are a common side effect of nitroglycerin due to its vasodilatory effects, which can cause blood vessels to expand, leading to headaches. Patients should be informed that this is a common reaction and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers if necessary¹²³⁴.
Choice B reason : A headache is not typically an indication of an allergy to nitroglycerin. Allergic reactions would more likely present with symptoms such as rash, itching, or difficulty breathing.
Choice C reason : While anxiety can cause headaches, in this context, the headache is more likely a direct side effect of the nitroglycerin, especially since it occurred after taking the medication and the chest pain was relieved.
Choice D reason : Tolerance to medication refers to a reduced response to a drug over time, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effect. A headache after taking nitroglycerin does not indicate tolerance; it is a known side effect of the drug.
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