In planning care for the patient with acute myocardial infarction (AMI), the nurse identifies the highest priority goal of care as which of the following?

Choice A reason: An embolic stroke is caused by an embolus traveling to the brain and blocking a blood vessel. The symptoms described do not specifically indicate an embolic stroke.

Choice B reason: A hemorrhagic stroke, which is bleeding within the brain, often presents with a sudden, severe headache, vomiting, and a change in consciousness, aligning with the symptoms described.

Choice C reason: A thrombotic stroke is caused by a thrombus forming in a blood vessel in the brain. While it can cause similar symptoms, the sudden severe headache is more characteristic of a hemorrhagic stroke.

Choice D reason: A transient ischemic attack (TIA) is a temporary blockage of blood flow to the brain. The symptoms usually resolve within minutes to hours and do not typically include a severe headache or vomiting.

Choice A reason: Genetics play a significant role in the development of multiple sclerosis (MS). While MS is not directly inherited, certain genetic markers can increase susceptibility. Studies have shown that individuals with a first-degree relative with MS have a higher risk compared to the general population.

Choice B reason: Environmental factors, such as low vitamin D levels, smoking, and possibly viral infections, are believed to contribute to the risk of developing MS. Geographic location, particularly living further from the equator, has also been associated with a higher incidence of MS, which may be related to sun exposure and vitamin D synthesis.

Choice C reason: While upper respiratory infections can trigger exacerbations in individuals with existing MS, they are not identified as a direct contributing factor to the development of the disease itself.

Choice D reason: MS is considered an autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks the central nervous system. This immune-mediated process targets the myelin sheath, leading to inflammation and characteristic lesions.

Choice E reason: Urinary tract infections are a common complication in individuals with MS due to bladder dysfunction, but they are not a contributing factor to the development of MS.