After performing an assessment of the oculocephalic reflex, the nurse suspects that the patient has an intracranial lesion. Which patient behavior supports the nurse's assessment findings?
Movement of the eye in the sideward direction occurs, with neck extension
When flexing the neck, eye movement is in the upward direction
Movement of the eye is in the opposite direction of the turned head
When extending the neck, eye movement is in the downward direction
The Correct Answer is C
A. The oculocephalic reflex test should cause the eyes to move in the opposite direction to the head turn, indicating intact brainstem function.
B. Movement of the eyes in an upward direction upon neck flexion indicates an abnormal response, suggesting a lesion.
C. A lesion could result in abnormal eye movement, as the eyes should move opposite to head movement.
D. Eye movement in the downward direction during neck extension is not a normal response and suggests a brainstem issue.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is []
Explanation
Increased Intracranial Pressure (ICP)
Based on the patient’s clinical presentation, which includes a fall, slurred speech, weak cough reflex, restlessness, and a slight headache, the patient is at risk for increased intracranial pressure (ICP). The history of falling from a ladder could suggest a possible head injury, and the changes in speech and restlessness could be early signs of increasing ICP. The presence of a laceration on the left temple may also indicate a traumatic brain injury, which is a key risk factor for increased ICP.
Actions to Take:
- Apply oxygen via cannula at 2 L/min
Oxygen is critical for brain tissue oxygenation, especially in patients with possible head injuries and ICP. The patient's oxygen saturation is 90% on room air, which is slightly low and requires supplementation to maintain adequate oxygen levels and reduce the risk of hypoxia, which can exacerbate increased ICP.
- Elevate the head of the bed to 45 degrees
Elevating the head of the bed to 30-45 degrees can help improve venous drainage from the brain, thus reducing the risk of increased ICP. Positioning the patient in this way also helps reduce pressure on the brain and enhances cerebral perfusion.
Parameters to Monitor:
- Level of consciousness (LOC)
Changes in the patient's level of consciousness are a key indicator of worsening ICP. The nurse should assess the patient’s alertness, orientation, and any deterioration in cognitive function or responsiveness. The patient's current orientation level is X2, meaning they are only oriented to person and place, which may signal a developing problem.
- Vital signs
Monitoring vital signs, especially blood pressure, heart rate, and respiratory rate, is crucial in assessing the patient's neurological status. Changes in blood pressure (especially widening pulse pressure) or abnormal respiratory patterns can be early indicators of increased ICP. In particular, the patient's blood pressure (152/59) suggests a possible increased risk of ICP, with the systolic value elevated but the diastolic pressure relatively low. This could be a compensatory response to ICP or another issue.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Left-sided strokes commonly affect language and speech functions due to damage in the language center, so communication goals should be prioritized.
B. Impulsive behavior is more commonly associated with right-sided strokes, not left-sided strokes.
C. Left-sided motor deficits are due to the right hemisphere being affected, not the left hemisphere.
D. Loss of depth perception is more often seen with right-sided strokes, affecting the right hemisphere.
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