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

Answer and Explanation

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.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A reason : A sore throat is a common side effect of radiation therapy to the neck area, particularly for cancer of the larynx. The radiation can cause inflammation and irritation of the throat and laryngeal tissues, leading to pain and discomfort when swallowing¹⁵. This side effect can be managed with pain relief medications and dietary adjustments to include softer foods and liquids.

Choice B reason : Dry mouth, or xerostomia, occurs when radiation damages the salivary glands, reducing saliva production. This can lead to difficulties in speaking, tasting, chewing, and swallowing, as well as an increased risk of dental problems¹³. Patients undergoing radiation therapy are often advised to stay hydrated and may be prescribed saliva substitutes or stimulants.

Choice C reason : Radiation to the neck might damage the thyroid gland, leading to hypothyroidism. Symptoms of thyroid problems due to radiation can include fatigue, weight gain, feeling cold, and having dry skin or hair³. Regular monitoring of thyroid function is recommended for patients who have received radiation therapy in the neck area.

Choice D reason : Lymphedema is swelling that can occur when radiation therapy affects the lymph nodes and vessels, impeding the flow of lymph fluid. In the context of neck radiation, this can lead to swelling in the neck and face³. Management includes physical therapy, compression garments, and careful skin care to prevent infection.

A. Tetany and complaints of stiffness of the hands. B. Exophthalmos and complaints of nervousness. C. Reports of extreme fatigue and hair loss. D. Reports of profuse sweating and flushed skin.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A reason : Tetany and stiffness of the hands are not typical symptoms of hypothyroidism. Tetany is usually associated with hypocalcemia, which is not a direct result of hypothyroidism⁶.

Choice B reason : Exophthalmos and nervousness are symptoms associated with hyperthyroidism, not hypothyroidism. Exophthalmos, the bulging of the eyes, is particularly associated with Graves' disease, a type of hyperthyroidism⁶.

Choice C reason : Extreme fatigue and hair loss are common symptoms of hypothyroidism. The condition can lead to a slowing down of the body's metabolic processes, resulting in fatigue. Hair loss is also a frequent complaint due to the effects of reduced thyroid hormone levels on hair follicles⁶⁷⁸.

Choice D reason : Profuse sweating and flushed skin are more indicative of hyperthyroidism or other conditions, not hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism typically leads to cold intolerance and dry skin⁶.

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When caring for an unconscious client with increasing intracranial pressure, the nursing intervention that is contraindicated is :

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is caring for a client scheduled to receive external radiation to the neck for cancer of the larynx. During a pre-treatment exam, the nurse explains to the client that the most likely side effect would be :

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A client is diagnosed with hypothyroidism. Which signs/symptoms should the nurse expect the client to exhibit?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A nurse is providing teaching to a client who has a new diagnosis of Parkinson's disease. On which of the following medications should the nurse prepare to instruct the client?

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