On admission to the emergency department, a patient with a C5 compression fracture can move only his head and has flaccid paralysis of all extremities. The distraught family asks if the paralysis is permanent. Which is the best response by the nurse?
"It is too early to tell. When the spinal shock subsides, we will know more."
"You should talk to your physician about things of that nature."
"No. Significant recovery of function should occur in a few days."
"Yes. In all likelihood, the paralysis is probably permanent."
The Correct Answer is A
A. "It is too early to tell. When the spinal shock subsides, we will know more."
This response is appropriate. Spinal shock can initially obscure the extent of neurological injury, and it may take time for the full extent of the injury to become apparent. By acknowledging this and suggesting that more information will be available once spinal shock subsides, the nurse provides a realistic perspective without prematurely predicting the outcome.
B. "You should talk to your physician about things of that nature."
This response may come across as dismissive or evasive. While it is true that the physician ultimately determines the patient's prognosis, the family may be seeking reassurance and guidance from the nurse as well.
C. "No. Significant recovery of function should occur in a few days."
This response is overly optimistic and potentially misleading. While some improvement may occur in the days following a spinal cord injury, significant recovery of function within a few days is unlikely, especially in cases of flaccid paralysis of all extremities.
D. "Yes. In all likelihood, the paralysis is probably permanent."
This response is overly pessimistic and lacks sensitivity. It may unnecessarily distress the family and extinguish hope for the patient's recovery.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Fresh fish
Fresh fish does not contain significant amounts of tyramine. Therefore, there is no need to eliminate fresh fish from the client's diet due to its interaction with selegiline.
B. Cheddar cheese
This is the correct answer. Cheddar cheese is a high-tyramine food and should be eliminated from the client's diet when taking MAOIs. Aged cheeses, such as cheddar, contain high levels of tyramine due to the fermentation process, which can increase the risk of a hypertensive crisis when combined with MAOIs.
C. Cherries
Cherries do not contain significant amounts of tyramine. Therefore, there is no need to eliminate cherries from the client's diet due to their interaction with selegiline.
D. Chicken
Chicken does not contain significant amounts of tyramine. Therefore, there is no need to eliminate chicken from the client's diet due to its interaction with selegiline.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","E"]
Explanation
A. Placing padding around or under the patient's head
This is a helpful instruction to include. Placing padding around or under the patient's head can help prevent injury during a seizure by cushioning the head against impact with the ground.
B. Positioning the patient on the side once the relaxation stage is entered to allow oral secretions to drain
This is a correct instruction. Positioning the patient on their side (recovery position) can help prevent aspiration if vomiting occurs during or after the seizure. It also helps clear oral secretions and maintain a clear airway.
C. Having the necessary equipment and/or personnel in case the patient doesn't spontaneously breathe when the seizure is over
This is an important instruction. It is crucial to have emergency equipment (such as oxygen and suction) readily available and to be prepared to provide respiratory support if the patient does not spontaneously breathe after the seizure.
D. Inserting a tongue depressor in the patient's mouth
This is an incorrect instruction. It is not recommended to insert anything into the patient's mouth during a seizure as it can cause injury to the teeth, gums, or airway. Additionally, it is a common misconception that tongue swallowing occurs during seizures, which is rare.
E. Noting the time the seizure started
This is a critical instruction. Noting the time the seizure started helps healthcare providers assess the duration of the seizure and determine if medical intervention is necessary. It also helps monitor the patient's recovery and response to treatment.
F. Holding the patient down to prevent injury
This is an incorrect instruction. Holding the patient down during a seizure can cause injury to both the patient and the person restraining them. It is important to create a safe environment by removing hazards and guiding the patient away from dangerous objects or situations, but holding them down is not appropriate.
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