The nurse has just received a report on a group of clients on the neurosurgical unit. Which client is the nurse’s first priority?
Client who displays plantar flexion when the bottom of the foot is stroked.
Client who consistently demonstrates decortication when stimulated.
Client whose Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) has changed from 15 to 12.
Client whose deep tendon reflexes have become hyperactive.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A Reason:
The client who displays plantar flexion when the bottom of the foot is stroked is exhibiting a normal reflex response known as the plantar reflex. This response indicates that the corticospinal tract is functioning properly. In adults, the normal response is plantar flexion of the toes, which means the toes curl downward. This is not an immediate cause for concern and does not indicate a life-threatening condition.
Choice B Reason:
The client who consistently demonstrates decortication when stimulated is showing signs of severe brain injury. Decorticate posturing is characterized by the arms being flexed at the elbows and held tightly to the chest, with the legs extended and feet turned inward. This type of posturing indicates damage to the cerebral hemispheres, thalamus, or midbrain. While this is a serious condition, it is not necessarily the most immediate priority compared to a sudden change in the Glasgow Coma Scale.
Choice C Reason:
The client whose Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) has changed from 15 to 12 is the nurse’s first priority. The GCS is a critical tool used to assess a patient’s level of consciousness, with scores ranging from 3 (deep coma) to 15 (fully awake and alert). A drop in GCS score indicates a significant decline in neurological function, which could be due to increased intracranial pressure, bleeding, or other acute changes in the brain. This requires immediate assessment and intervention to prevent further deterioration.
Choice D Reason:
The client whose deep tendon reflexes have become hyperactive is showing signs of hyperreflexia. Hyperactive reflexes can indicate an upper motor neuron lesion, which affects the descending corticospinal tract. While this is a concerning sign that warrants further investigation, it is not as immediately critical as a sudden change in the GCS score.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Decrease protein intake: This is not typically recommended for clients with Cushing’s disease. Protein is essential for maintaining muscle mass and overall health. Clients with Cushing’s disease often experience muscle weakness and wasting, so adequate protein intake is crucial to help counteract these effects. Therefore, decreasing protein intake would not be beneficial.
Choice B Reason:
Restrict sodium intake: Clients with Cushing’s disease often suffer from hypertension (high blood pressure) due to the excess cortisol in their bodies. High sodium intake can exacerbate this condition by increasing blood pressure even further. Therefore, it is crucial to restrict sodium intake to help manage hypertension and reduce the risk of cardiovascular complications. Foods high in sodium include processed foods, canned soups, and salty snacks. The recommended daily sodium intake for most adults is less than 2,300 milligrams, but for those with hypertension, it is often advised to consume even less.
Choice C Reason:
Limit intake of potassium-rich foods: This is not a standard recommendation for clients with Cushing’s disease. In fact, potassium is often beneficial as it can help counteract the effects of sodium and lower blood pressure. Potassium-rich foods include bananas, oranges, spinach, and sweet potatoes. Limiting these foods would not be advantageous and could potentially worsen hypertension.
Choice D Reason:
Increase carbohydrate intake: Increasing carbohydrate intake is not typically recommended for clients with Cushing’s disease. Excess cortisol can lead to increased blood sugar levels and a higher risk of developing diabetes. Therefore, it is important to manage carbohydrate intake carefully to avoid spikes in blood sugar. Instead, a balanced diet with a focus on complex carbohydrates, lean proteins, and healthy fats is recommended.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Thirst is a common and expected symptom after an EGD, especially if the client has been fasting before the procedure. It does not typically indicate a complication and can be managed by gradually reintroducing fluids as tolerated. Therefore, thirst does not require further nursing assessment beyond routine post-procedure care.
Choice B Reason:
A sore throat is also a common symptom following an EGD. The procedure involves passing an endoscope through the throat, which can cause temporary irritation and discomfort. This symptom usually resolves on its own within a few days and does not indicate a serious complication. Therefore, a sore throat does not require further nursing assessment beyond providing comfort measures such as lozenges or warm saltwater gargles.
Choice C Reason:
Abdominal distention is a concerning symptom that requires further nursing assessment. It can indicate complications such as perforation, bleeding, or infection following the EGD. Perforation of the gastrointestinal tract is a rare but serious complication that can lead to peritonitis and sepsis if not promptly addressed. Therefore, any signs of abdominal distention should be reported to the provider immediately for further evaluation and intervention.
Choice D Reason:
Drowsiness is a common side effect of the sedatives used during the EGD procedure. It is expected that the client may feel drowsy or sleepy for a few hours after the procedure as the sedative wears off. This symptom does not typically require further nursing assessment unless it persists for an unusually long time or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms such as difficulty breathing or altered mental status.
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