The nurse is caring for a patient in the acute care setting with a spinal cord injury (SCI) at the level of C-3. What is the main cause of complications or death related to this injury?

Bradycardia

Sepsis

Hypertension

Respiratory compromise

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

A. Bradycardia is possible due to autonomic dysfunction but is not the leading cause of death.

B. Sepsis can occur due to immobility and pressure injuries but is secondary to respiratory compromise.

C. Hypertension is not directly linked to high cervical spine injuries and is less common than respiratory issues in this setting.

D. Respiratory compromise is the primary cause of complications or death in patients with a high cervical spine injury (C-3 and above) due to loss of innervation to the diaphragm and intercostal muscles, which impairs spontaneous breathing. Mechanical ventilation is often required to maintain adequate oxygenation.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. While drug dependence can be a concern with long-term use, it is not the immediate priority in an emergency setting where the goal is to stabilize the patient in status epilepticus.

B. Cardiac rhythm monitoring is important when administering certain medications, but lorazepam primarily affects the central nervous system and respiratory system, making oxygen saturation monitoring more critical.

C. Pulse oximetry is the priority assessment as IV lorazepam can depress the respiratory system, leading to hypoxia. Monitoring oxygen saturation helps ensure the patient maintains adequate respiratory function during administration.

D. Assessing pain is important in patient care, but it is not the priority in managing a patient in status epilepticus, where stabilization is essential.

A. Clarify misinformation and reorient when confused B. Turn patient every 2 hours C. Ensure bed alarm is on when leaving the patient's room D. Vary schedule to prevent memorization and boredom

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. Reorienting confused patients is important but is not directly related to cerebellar injury.

B. While turning every 2 hours is important to prevent pressure injuries, it does not address the specific fall risk associated with cerebellar damage.

C. The cerebellum is responsible for balance and coordination, so injuries in this area increase the risk of falls. Ensuring the bed alarm is on provides immediate alerts if the patient attempts to get out of bed, helping to prevent falls.

D. Varying the schedule to prevent boredom is not a priority in the care of patients with cerebellar injury.

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The nurse is caring for a patient in the acute care setting with a spinal cord injury (SCI) at the level of C-3. What is the main cause of complications or death related to this injury?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

The healthcare provider has prescribed intravenous (IV) lorazepam for the patient in status epilepticus. During administration, which is the priority assessment by the nurse?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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