When assessing the client with meningitis, the nurse looks for which manifestation as a frequent first sign of increased intracranial pressure?
A rising systolic blood pressure
Change in mood or attention level
Irregular respiratory rate and depth
A bounding radial pulse
The Correct Answer is B
A. A rising systolic blood pressure: While increased intracranial pressure can lead to changes in blood pressure, it is not typically the first sign observed. Changes in blood pressure may occur later in the progression of increased intracranial pressure.
B. Change in mood or attention level: Changes in mood, behavior, or level of consciousness are often early signs of increased intracranial pressure. These changes may include irritability, confusion, restlessness, or lethargy.
C. Irregular respiratory rate and depth: Respiratory changes such as irregular breathing patterns or Cheyne-Stokes respirations can occur with increased intracranial pressure, but they are not typically the first sign observed.
D. A bounding radial pulse: While changes in pulse rate or quality may occur with increased
intracranial pressure, a bounding radial pulse is not typically the first sign observed. It may occur later in the progression of increased intracranial pressure as compensation mechanisms fail.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Paraplegia: Paraplegia is the paralysis of the lower extremities and possibly the trunk, which can occur with a spinal cord injury at the level of the T2-T3 vertebrae.
B. Paresthesia: Paresthesia refers to abnormal sensations such as tingling or numbness and is not typically associated with a spinal cord injury at the T2-T3 level. It may occur with nerve damage but is not the primary disability anticipated in this scenario.
C. Quadriplegia: Quadriplegia, also known as tetraplegia, involves paralysis of all four limbs and the trunk. It is more commonly associated with injuries at higher levels of the spinal cord, such as cervical injuries.
D. Hemiplegia: Hemiplegia involves paralysis of one side of the body and is typically caused by a stroke or brain injury, not a spinal cord injury at the T2-T3 level.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. The patient had a recent acute myocardial infarction: Sumatriptan is contraindicated in patients with a history of myocardial infarction or coronary artery disease due to its vasoconstrictive effects, which could exacerbate ischemia or precipitate cardiovascular events.
B. The patient has had migraine headaches for 30 years: While the duration of migraine headaches is relevant to the patient's history, it is not as immediately concerning as a recent myocardial infarction when considering the use of sumatriptan.
C. The patient drinks 1 to 2 cups of coffee daily: While caffeine consumption may interact with sumatriptan and affect its efficacy or side effects, it is not as immediately concerning as a recent myocardial infarction.
D. The patient has taken topiramate (Topamax) for 2 months: While the use of topiramate may interact with sumatriptan, it is not as immediately concerning as a recent myocardial infarction. However, it is still important to report all medications the patient is taking to the healthcare provider.
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