A patient is being admitted to the unit with suspected herpes simplex virus encephalitis. What nursing action best addresses the patient’s complaints of headache?

Administering hydromorphone as needed

Distracting the patient with activity

Dimming the lights and reducing stimulation

Initiating a patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) of morphine sulfate .

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

Choice C rationale
Dimming the lights and reducing stimulation can be an effective nursing intervention for a patient with herpes simplex virus encephalitis who is complaining of a headache. Bright lights and excessive noise can exacerbate headaches, so creating a quiet, dimly lit environment can help to alleviate this symptom.
Choice A rationale

While administering hydromorphone as needed can help to manage the patient’s pain, it does not directly address the patient’s complaint of a headache. Moreover, opioids like hydromorphone can have side effects such as drowsiness and constipation, which may not be desirable in a patient with encephalitis.
Choice B rationale
Distracting the patient with activity may not be appropriate for a patient with herpes simplex virus encephalitis who is complaining of a headache. Rest and quiet are often more beneficial for these patients.
Choice D rationale
Initiating a patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) of morphine sulfate can provide effective pain relief for some patients, but it may not be the best first-line approach for a patient with a headache due to herpes simplex virus encephalitis. Like hydromorphone, morphine can have side effects such as drowsiness and constipation.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A rationale
The patient lying in bed with their head elevated to 35 degrees while eating could pose a risk for aspiration, especially for a patient with Huntington’s disease. Huntington’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that can cause difficulties with swallowing and motor control.
Therefore, it is recommended that the patient be as upright as possible, ideally in a seated position, during meals to reduce the risk of aspiration.
Choice B rationale

Providing thickened liquids is a common intervention for patients with Huntington’s disease who have difficulty swallowing. Thickened liquids are easier to control and swallow, reducing the risk of aspiration.
Choice C rationale
Not rushing the patient in eating each bite is a recommended practice. Patients with Huntington’s disease often have difficulty with motor control, including swallowing. Allowing the patient to take their time can help prevent choking and aspiration.
Choice D rationale
Ensuring that the patient’s food is minced is another recommended practice for patients with Huntington’s disease. Minced food is easier to chew and swallow, which can help prevent choking and aspiration.

A. Introduce self after entering the patient’s room B. Use a firm, loud voice when addressing the patient C. Lightly touch the patient’s arm D. Provide instructions in clear, simple terms .

Correct Answer is ["A","C","D"]

Explanation

Choice A rationale
Introducing oneself after entering the patient’s room is a key aspect of effective communication with a blind patient. This helps the patient identify who is in the room with them.
Choice B rationale
Using a firm, loud voice when addressing the patient is not necessarily effective. While it’s important to speak clearly, raising one’s voice can come off as patronizing or disrespectful. It’s better to speak in a normal tone and adjust as needed based on the patient’s feedback.
Choice C rationale

Lightly touching the patient’s arm can be an effective way to gain their attention, especially if they may not have heard you enter the room. However, it’s important to ask for consent before touching the patient.
Choice D rationale
Providing instructions in clear, simple terms can be very helpful for a blind patient. This can help them understand what is happening and what they need to do.

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A patient is being admitted to the unit with suspected herpes simplex virus encephalitis. What nursing action best addresses the patient’s complaints of headache?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

The nurse is precepting a new nurse who is caring for a patient with a history of Huntington’s disease. The new nurse is preparing to feed the patient lunch. What action by the new nurse would cause the precepting nurse to intervene?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A nurse, during a shift report, learns that a patient under their care is blind. What actions by the nurse would demonstrate effective communication?

Correct Answer is ["A","C","D"]

Explanation

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