The nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) who is complaining of diplopia. Which intervention would be appropriate for the client with this problem?
Assess for conjunctival bleeding
Encourage the use of sunglasses when outside
Alternate the use of an eye patch on each eye
Apply cool compresses for pain relief
This result is consistent with partially compensated respiratory alkalosis. In respiratory alkalosis, the pH would be elevated (alkalotic), PaCO2 would be low (indicating hyperventilation), and the kidneys would attempt to compensate by lowering bicarbonate (HCO3). In this case, the low PaCO2 (23 mmHg) and the low HCO3 (14 mEq/L) demonstrate partial compensation. The pH is also elevated at 7.64, which aligns with alkalosis. This is the correct answer for partially compensated respiratory alkalosis.
The Correct Answer is C
A) Assess for conjunctival bleeding
Conjunctival bleeding refers to blood in the white part of the eye (the conjunctiva), which is typically associated with trauma, infections, or certain blood disorders, but it is not a common cause of diplopia (double vision). Diplopia in multiple sclerosis (MS) is more often due to nerve damage affecting the eye muscles or the pathways controlling eye movement. Therefore, assessing for conjunctival bleeding is not a priority intervention for a client with diplopia related to MS.
B) Encourage the use of sunglasses when outside
While wearing sunglasses may help alleviate light sensitivity, which is a common symptom in individuals with MS, it is not the most appropriate intervention for treating diplopia itself. Diplopia is typically caused by issues with eye muscle control or coordination, often related to the central nervous system. Therefore, while sunglasses might provide comfort, they do not address the underlying cause of the double vision.
C) Alternate the use of an eye patch on each eye
Alternating the use of an eye patch on each eye is an effective intervention for managing diplopia, especially when the cause is related to misalignment or weakness of the eye muscles. The eye patch works by covering one eye at a time to prevent double vision. In MS, this technique can help reduce the visual disturbance and provide relief until further interventions (such as eye exercises or medications) can be considered. This approach is commonly used to manage diplopia caused by nerve involvement affecting ocular muscle function.
D) Apply cool compresses for pain relief
Cool compresses may provide relief for eye irritation or inflammation, but they are not typically used to treat diplopia. Diplopia in MS is more related to neuromuscular dysfunction or nerve damage, rather than acute inflammation or irritation of the eye. Therefore, while a cool compress may offer temporary relief for other symptoms, it is not a targeted solution for double vision in this context.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. A systolic murmur: A systolic murmur is often associated with valvular heart disease, particularly mitral regurgitation, which can sometimes result from papillary muscle dysfunction after a myocardial infarction. However, a systolic murmur is not a typical or immediate complication following an anterior-lateral wall MI. The focus in the early hours after an MI should be on more acute complications, such as dysrhythmias and hemodynamic stability, rather than a murmur, which may develop more gradually over time.
B. Ventricular dysrhythmias: Ventricular dysrhythmias are one of the most common and life-threatening complications in the immediate hours following an acute myocardial infarction (MI), especially with an anterior-lateral wall MI. These dysrhythmias occur due to the electrical disturbances caused by myocardial injury and ischemia. The heart muscle becomes more susceptible to abnormal electrical activity after the infarction, and monitoring for ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation is crucial. These arrhythmias can lead to sudden cardiac arrest, which is why they are a high priority for monitoring in the immediate post-MI period.
C. A pericardial friction rub: A pericardial friction rub is a sign of pericarditis, which can occur after an MI, particularly several days to a week later, rather than in the immediate post-MI period. While pericarditis is a possible complication of MI, it is less likely to present immediately after the infarction, especially in the first few hours. The nurse should monitor for pericarditis, but it is not as high a priority as dysrhythmias during the first hours after MI.
D. Renal insufficiency: While renal insufficiency can develop as a result of poor perfusion or shock following a myocardial infarction, it is not one of the most immediate or common complications to watch for in the first hours after an anterior-lateral MI. The primary concern in this acute phase is monitoring for cardiovascular complications, such as dysrhythmias, rather than renal function. Renal insufficiency would be a secondary concern, particularly if the patient is hypotensive or experiencing other signs of multi-organ involvement.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Call for the rapid response team and request a portable chest x-ray: While it is important to call for help and obtain imaging if needed, the immediate action is to address the potential pneumothorax by sealing the wound. The rapid response team and chest x-ray are necessary for further assessment, but securing the wound is the priority in the moment.
B. Turn the suction drainage system off and auscultate breath sounds: Turning off the suction drainage system and auscultating breath sounds may be part of subsequent assessment and care, but these actions are secondary to stopping the entry of air into the pleural space. Auscultating breath sounds would be important after the chest tube is secured to assess for signs of pneumothorax or other complications, but it is not the first priority.
C. Apply a sterile dressing and tape on three sides: The first priority when a chest tube becomes accidentally dislodged is to seal the wound to prevent air from entering the pleural space, which could cause a pneumothorax (collapsed lung). The correct method to seal the chest tube insertion site is to apply a sterile dressing and tape it on three sides. This technique allows air to escape from the pleural space but prevents air from entering, creating a temporary "one-way valve" effect. This is crucial in stabilizing the patient until further medical intervention can be provided. The fourth side of the dressing is left open to allow for air to escape, which helps prevent a tension pneumothorax
D. Notify the healthcare provider immediately: While notifying the healthcare provider is important, securing the wound to prevent further air entry is the immediate priority. Notifying the provider can occur after the dressing is applied. Prompt action to stabilize the chest tube site is crucial to prevent further respiratory distress or complications.
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