What is the term or acronym for a temporary impairment of cerebral circulation that causes symptoms lasting minutes to hours but results in no permanent neurological changes?

A. Acutely inflamed joints will respond best to heat therapy: Heat can help relieve chronic joint stiffness and pain, but acutely inflamed joints are best treated with cold therapy to reduce inflammation and pain.
B. It is essential to monitor all body systems for effects of the disease: RA is a systemic autoimmune disorder that can affect multiple body systems, including the cardiovascular, respiratory, and integumentary systems, making comprehensive monitoring crucial.
C. Injury and age are the greatest contributors to disease development: RA is not primarily caused by injury or aging. It is an autoimmune condition that can develop at any age, although it is more common in middle age and is influenced by genetic and environmental factors.
D. Exercise is poorly tolerated and frequent rest is needed: While rest is important during flare-ups, regular, gentle exercise is beneficial for maintaining joint function and overall health in RA patients. It helps maintain mobility and reduces joint stiffness.

Condition the Patient is Most Likely Experiencing:

Intracerebral Haemorrhage (ICH) : The patient presents with a severe headache, lethargy, decreased level of consciousness, and slurred, incomprehensible speech, which are common signs of a stroke or intracerebral haemorrhage. A history of hypertension and atrial fibrillation increases the risk for both ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes. The use of apixaban, an anticoagulant, suggests the patient is at risk for bleeding complications, including intracerebral haemorrhage.

Interventions to Perform/Anticipate:

1. Perform a CT Scan of the Head:
   • Rationale: A CT scan will help determine if there is bleeding or an ischemic event in the brain. It is crucial for differentiating between ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke, guiding subsequent treatment.
2. Administer Intravenous Antihypertensives:
   • Rationale: Controlling blood pressure is critical to reduce the risk of further bleeding in the brain. Immediate BP management is essential in the acute setting of suspected stroke.

Parameters to Monitor:

1. Neurological Status:
   • Rationale: Monitoring changes in the patient’s level of consciousness, pupil reactions, and motor response will help assess the progression of the neurological deficit and effectiveness of interventions.
2. Blood Pressure:
   • Rationale: Maintaining blood pressure within a safe range is essential to prevent exacerbation of the hemorrhage. Hypertension management is key to avoid further complications.