Twenty minutes after the onset of symptoms, an adult client presents to the emergency department with slurred speech and right-sided weakness. After a computerized tomography (CT) scan reveals a non-hemorrhagic stroke, the nurse administers alteplase. Which assessment finding warrants immediate intervention?
Headache with blurred vision.
Lower extremity edema.
Paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia.
Frequent premature ventricular contractions.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: A headache with blurred vision following alteplase administration could indicate intracranial hemorrhage, which requires immediate intervention.
Choice B reason: Lower extremity edema is not typically an immediate concern post-alteplase administration unless it indicates a deep vein thrombosis.
Choice C reason: Paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia requires monitoring, but it is not as urgent as a headache with blurred vision, which could signify a life-threatening complication.
Choice D reason: Frequent premature ventricular contractions should be monitored, but they are not as critical as a headache with blurred vision post-alteplase.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: While pneumatic compression devices are used for DVT prevention, they are not the immediate intervention for suspected stroke.
Choice B reason: Placing an indwelling urinary catheter is not the first-line intervention for a patient with suspected stroke symptoms.
Choice C reason: Notifying the stroke team is the most appropriate action as the patient's symptoms suggest a possible stroke, requiring urgent evaluation and management.
Choice D reason: Aspirin may be used in the management of stroke, but only after a stroke has been confirmed and not as an immediate intervention.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A: Advise the UAP to resume positioning the client on schedule.
Reason: Turning the client from side to side is a critical nursing intervention to prevent complications such as pressure ulcers, pneumonia, and other issues related to immobility. Even though the client has a “Do Not Resuscitate” (DNR) order, it does not mean that comfort and preventive care measures should be stopped. The nurse should advise the UAP to continue with the scheduled positioning to ensure the client’s comfort and prevent further complications.
Choice B: Encourage the UAP to provide comfort care measures only.
Reason: While providing comfort care is essential, it does not mean that other necessary interventions, such as turning the client, should be neglected. Comfort care measures should include turning the client to prevent pressure ulcers and other complications. Therefore, this option is not the best choice as it may lead to neglecting important preventive care.
Choice C: Assume total care of the client to monitor neurologic function.
Reason: Assuming total care of the client is not practical and may not be necessary. The nurse should delegate tasks appropriately and ensure that the UAP is performing their duties correctly. Monitoring neurologic function is important, but it does not require the nurse to take over all aspects of the client’s care.
Choice D: Assign a practical nurse to assist the UAP in turning the client.
Reason: While assigning a practical nurse to assist the UAP might be helpful, it is not necessary if the UAP can resume the scheduled positioning on their own. The nurse should first advise the UAP to continue with the scheduled positioning before considering additional assistance.
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