The charge nurse is making assignments for one practical nurse (PN) and three registered nurses (RN) who are caring for neurologically compromised clients. Which client with which change in status is best to assign to the PN?

Viral meningitis whose temperature changed from 101° F (38.3°C) to 102° F (38.9° C).

Myxedema coma whose blood pressure changed from 80/50 mm Hg to 70/40 mm Hg.

Diabetic ketoacidosis whose Glasgow Coma Scale score changed from 10 to 7.

Subdural hematoma whose blood pressure changed from 150/80 mm Hg to 170/60 mm Hg.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

A)   Correct- Viral meningitis is an inflammation of the meninges (the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord) caused by a viral infection. While it can be serious, it is generally less severe than bacterial meningitis. Monitoring the client's temperature is an important aspect of care, as changes in temperature can indicate the progression of the illness or the effectiveness of interventions. A temperature increase from 101°F to 102°F is a subtle change but may still require close monitoring and symptom management. The practical nurse (PN) is capable of monitoring vital signs, including temperature, and reporting any changes to the registered nurse (RN) or healthcare provider. It is within the PN's scope of practice to assess and report changes in vital signs and general condition. The other scenarios involve more complex clinical situations that may require the expertise of registered nurses.
B)   Incorrect- Myxedema coma is a severe form of hypothyroidism and is considered a medical emergency. Managing and assessing a client with myxedema coma requires advanced assessment, critical thinking, and interventions that are typically within the scope of registered nurses.
C)   Incorrect- Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a complex condition that requires frequent monitoring of blood glucose levels, electrolytes, vital signs, and assessment of the level of consciousness. The change in the Glasgow Coma Scale score indicates a neurological deterioration that requires immediate attention and intervention, making it suitable for a registered nurse.
D)   Incorrect- A subdural hematoma is a serious neurological condition that requires close monitoring of vital signs and neurological status. The change in blood pressure indicates a potential change in intracranial pressure and should be managed by registered nurses with expertise in neurological care.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Assessing the client's level of consciousness involves observing their responsiveness, orientation, and ability to follow commands. If the client is unresponsive or exhibits any signs of altered consciousness, the nurse should immediately activate the emergency response system and begin resuscitative measures, such as administering oxygen and initiating cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if necessary.

Once the client's level of consciousness is established and the emergency response system has been activated if necessary, the nurse can proceed to assess the depth of the slashes, estimate the amount of blood loss, and find the object used to cause the injuries. These assessments will provide important information about the extent and severity of the client's injuries, which will guide subsequent interventions.

A. Cerebral edema B. Acute asphyxia C. Hypertension D. Respiratory distress E. Hyperthermia F. Subdural hemorrhage

Correct Answer is ["A","B","D","F"]

Explanation

A) Cerebral edema: Brain injury or trauma can lead to swelling and increased intracranial pressure.
B) Correct- Near- drowning causes acute asphyxia because it prevents the person from breathing in oxygen and exhaling carbon dioxide. Asphyxia is a condition where the body is deprived of oxygen, which can lead to loss of consciousness, brain injury, or death.
C) Incorrect- Hypertension is not a common complication following near-drowning. The focus should be on potential brain injuries and respiratory distress.
D) Correct- Near-drowning can lead to aspiration of water or other substances, which can result in respiratory distress.
E) Incorrect- hyperthermia is not likely to occur in this case because the child was exposed to cold water.
F) Correct- Head trauma can lead to bleeding within the brain, such as a subdural hemorrhage.

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The charge nurse is making assignments for one practical nurse (PN) and three registered nurses (RN) who are caring for neurologically compromised clients. Which client with which change in status is best to assign to the PN?

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