The nurse is caring for a patient taking a cholinergic agent. When auscultating lung sounds, the nurse notes inspiratory and expiratory wheezing bilaterally. The best action for the nurse to take would be to:

A. Polyuria:

Polyuria, or increased urine output, is not typically associated with increased intracranial pressure. It may occur due to other factors such as diabetes insipidus or fluid administration.

B. Battle's sign:

Battle's sign refers to bruising behind the ear and is often associated with basilar skull fractures. While it can indicate a head injury, it is not a direct manifestation of increased intracranial pressure.

C. Nuchal rigidity:

Nuchal rigidity, stiffness of the neck muscles, is commonly associated with meningitis rather than increased intracranial pressure. It is a sign of meningeal irritation and inflammation rather than direct pressure within the skull.

D. Lethargy:

This is the correct answer. Lethargy, or excessive drowsiness or fatigue, can be an early manifestation of increased intracranial pressure. As pressure increases within the skull, it can lead to alterations in consciousness ranging from lethargy to coma. Monitoring the client for changes in level of consciousness, including lethargy, is important for early detection of increased intracranial pressure.

A. Withhold the next dose and notify the physician:

Withholding the next dose of the cholinergic agent is the appropriate immediate action because the presence of inspiratory and expiratory wheezing bilaterally suggests bronchoconstriction or bronchospasm, which can be a serious adverse reaction to the medication. Notifying the physician promptly allows for further assessment and management of the patient's respiratory symptoms. The physician may need to adjust the medication regimen, order diagnostic tests, or provide treatment for bronchoconstriction.

B. Give the next dose:

Administering the next dose of the cholinergic agent could worsen the patient's respiratory symptoms and exacerbate bronchoconstriction. This action is contraindicated in the presence of wheezing, as it may further compromise the patient's respiratory function.

C. Assess heart rate:

While assessing heart rate is an important aspect of patient assessment, it is not the priority in this scenario. The priority is to address the respiratory distress and potential bronchoconstriction associated with the cholinergic agent. Wheezing is a respiratory symptom that suggests airway obstruction, and immediate intervention is necessary to ensure adequate oxygenation and ventilation.

D. Assess blood pressure:

Similarly, while assessing blood pressure is important in patient care, it is not the priority in this situation. The priority is to address the respiratory distress and potential bronchoconstriction associated with the cholinergic agent. Wheezing indicates respiratory compromise, and prompt action is required to prevent further respiratory deterioration.