Neurologic Case Study
Patient Profile:
- Age: 68 years
- Gender: Male
- Medical History: Hypertension, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
- Medications: Lisinopril, Metformin
- Allergies: None
Chief Complaint: The patient presents to the emergency department (ED) with sudden onset of right-sided weakness and difficulty speaking that began approximately 1 hour prior to arrival.
Which condition is the patient most likely experiencing?
Hypoglycemia
Hemorrhagic stroke
Ischemic stroke
Multiple sclerosis
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Hypoglycemia typically presents with symptoms such as sweating, trembling, hunger, confusion, and in severe cases, loss of consciousness. The patient's symptoms of sudden right-sided weakness and difficulty speaking are more consistent with a neurological event rather than low blood sugar levels.
Choice B reason: Hemorrhagic stroke involves bleeding within the brain. Although it can present with similar symptoms to ischemic stroke, the diagnostic tests indicate no evidence of hemorrhage. This makes a hemorrhagic stroke less likely.
Choice C reason: Ischemic stroke occurs when a blood clot blocks a blood vessel in the brain, leading to reduced blood flow and oxygen to a part of the brain. The patient's symptoms of sudden right-sided weakness and expressive aphasia are classic signs of an ischemic stroke, and the absence of hemorrhage on the head CT scan supports this diagnosis.
Choice D reason: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, progressive disease that affects the central nervous system. It usually presents with episodic neurological symptoms rather than the sudden onset seen in this patient. MS symptoms develop over time and can vary widely, whereas the patient's acute presentation is more indicative of a stroke.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Asking the patient to try bearing weight on the injured ankle is not appropriate at this stage. Bearing weight can cause further injury or exacerbate the swelling and pain. The initial treatment should focus on reducing swelling and providing support.
Choice B reason: Elevating the ankle above heart level is appropriate because it helps to reduce swelling by promoting venous return and decreasing fluid accumulation in the affected area. Elevation is a standard first aid measure for managing acute injuries and swelling.
Choice C reason: Applying a warm moist pack to the ankle is not advisable immediately after an injury. In the acute phase, cold therapy (ice) is recommended to reduce swelling and pain. Warm therapy is more appropriate during the recovery phase, once swelling has subsided.
Choice D reason: Assessing the ankle's passive range of motion (ROM) may be necessary later, but not immediately upon arrival. The priority is to manage pain and swelling first. ROM assessments can be painful and might worsen the injury if conducted too soon.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Endocardial infection is not commonly associated with Alzheimer's disease. While it can occur, it is not a frequent infection related to chronic dementia.
Choice B reason: Brain infections, such as encephalitis, can occur but are not among the most common infections seen in patients with Alzheimer's disease.
Choice C reason: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common in patients with Alzheimer's disease due to factors such as immobility, incontinence, and the use of catheters. UTIs can exacerbate confusion and other dementia-related symptoms.
Choice D reason: Pneumonia is a common and serious infection in patients with Alzheimer's disease. Due to cognitive impairment, these patients may have difficulty swallowing, leading to aspiration pneumonia. Additionally, their weakened immune systems make them more susceptible to respiratory infections.
Choice E reason: Gastrointestinal infections are not typically associated with Alzheimer's disease as a common complication. While they can occur, they are not as prevalent as UTIs and pneumonia in this patient population.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.