When caring for an unconscious client with increasing intracranial pressure, the nursing intervention that is contraindicated is :
Elevating the head of the bed 20 degrees
Cleansing the eyes every 4 hours with normal saline
Lubricating the skin with baby oil
Suctioning the oropharynx routinely
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason : Elevating the head of the bed to 20 degrees can help reduce intracranial pressure by promoting venous drainage from the brain. It is a recommended practice unless contraindicated by other conditions³.
Choice B reason : Cleansing the eyes with normal saline every 4 hours is a standard care procedure to maintain eye hygiene and prevent infection, especially when the blink reflex may be compromised in an unconscious patient³.
Choice C reason : Lubricating the skin with baby oil is a common practice to prevent dryness and maintain skin integrity. It is not contraindicated unless the patient has specific allergies or skin conditions that require different care³.
Choice D reason : Suctioning the oropharynx routinely is contraindicated as it can stimulate the vagus nerve and potentially increase intracranial pressure. Suctioning should be performed cautiously and only when necessary³.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason : Naproxen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) which can be detrimental to patients with congestive heart failure (CHF). NSAIDs can lead to sodium and fluid retention, exacerbating CHF symptoms and potentially leading to a worsening of the condition⁶⁷. Therefore, it is not recommended for managing discomfort in CHF patients.
Choice B reason : Slowing down if feeling tired after exercising is a prudent measure for anyone, especially for CHF patients. It indicates the patient is listening to their body and respecting its limits, which is essential in managing CHF. Overexertion can strain an already compromised heart, so moderation and careful monitoring of physical activity are key¹².
Choice C reason : The recommended daily sodium intake for heart failure patients is generally less than 2,000 mg¹⁶¹⁷¹⁸. A limit of 4 grams per day is significantly higher than the recommended amount and could lead to fluid retention and worsening of heart failure symptoms. Therefore, this statement does not reflect effective teaching.
Choice D reason : Diuretics are often prescribed to CHF patients to manage fluid retention. However, taking diuretics before sleep can lead to nocturia, disrupting sleep due to the need to urinate at night. It is generally recommended to take diuretics earlier in the day, with the last dose no later than 4 p.m., to minimize nighttime disruptions¹³¹⁴. Drinking fluids during the day without restriction can also contribute to fluid overload, which is counterproductive in CHF management.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","E","F"]
Explanation
Choice A reason : Morphine sulfate is used intravenously in acute heart failure with pulmonary edema because it can reduce preload and afterload, thereby decreasing the work of the heart and improving breathing.
Choice B reason : Administering oxygen is crucial for a client with pulmonary edema to improve oxygenation and relieve symptoms of hypoxia.
Choice C reason : Transporting the client to the coronary care unit is appropriate for continuous monitoring and management of acute heart failure and pulmonary edema.
Choice D reason : While placing the client in a high Fowler's position is recommended to ease breathing, the low Fowler's side-lying position is not typically indicated for pulmonary edema. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.
Choice E reason : Inserting a Foley catheter can help monitor urine output, especially important when administering diuretics like furosemide, and manage fluid status.
Choice F reason : Administering furosemide (Lasix), a diuretic, helps to reduce fluid overload and relieve pulmonary congestion in clients with heart failure and pulmonary edema.
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