The health care provider prescribes IV mannitol for a client with an intracranial pressure (ICP) of 22. How will the nurse determine that the medication had the intended effect?
Intracranial pressure (ICP) is now 15.
The patient voids 250 mL over 2 hours.
The patient's pupils are dilated and sluggish.
Seizure behavior is absent.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Intracranial pressure (ICP) is now 15: Mannitol is an osmotic diuretic used to reduce intracranial pressure (ICP). The intended effect of the medication is to lower ICP. A decrease in ICP to 15 mmHg is within the normal range and indicates the medication has worked effectively.
B. The patient voids 250 mL over 2 hours is incorrect. While mannitol promotes diuresis, the amount of urine output alone does not directly indicate a reduction in ICP. The goal is to lower ICP, which is best assessed by measuring the ICP itself.
C. The patient's pupils are dilated and sluggish is incorrect. Dilated and sluggish pupils can be a sign of increased ICP, not a response to effective treatment.
D. Seizure behavior is absent is incorrect. While mannitol can help reduce ICP and potentially prevent seizures, the absence of seizure behavior is not a direct indicator of the medication's effect on ICP.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. The client is able to sit erect without assistance: This suggests a lower level injury, likely below C-2, as higher injuries often result in paralysis of respiratory muscles.
B. The client is able to move fingers slightly: This would be indicative of a higher level injury, but C-1 to C-2 injuries typically result in complete paralysis below the neck.
C. The client is displaying shallow respirations: Injuries at the C-1 or C-2 level can affect the diaphragm and the ability to breathe deeply, leading to shallow respirations.
D. The client is able to speak in full sentences: A C-1 to C-2 injury would likely affect the ability to speak, as it could impair the phrenic nerve and respiratory muscles needed for adequate breathing and speech.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Insertion of central venous access: This is not relevant to compartment syndrome management. Central venous access is used for fluid administration or monitoring central venous pressure.
B. Phlebotomy: This is unrelated to the management of compartment syndrome, as it involves drawing blood and does not address the increased pressure.
C. Fasciotomy: Compartment syndrome is a medical emergency where increased pressure within a closed compartment compromises circulation and tissue function. A fasciotomy involves surgically opening the compartment to relieve the pressure, prevent tissue necrosis, and save the limb. This is the definitive treatment.
D. Insertion of arterial line: While this may be useful for monitoring blood pressure in critical situations, it does not relieve compartment syndrome.
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