When considering the pharmacologic management of a patient who has sustained a traumatic head injury, the nurse can anticipate a prescription for which of the following medications to manage increases in intracranial pressure (ICP)?
Nitroprusside
Furosemide
3% Normal Saline
Norepinephrine
The Correct Answer is C
A. Nitroprusside is a vasodilator and is not used for managing ICP; it can increase intracranial pressure if not carefully monitored.
B. Furosemide is a diuretic but is less effective for ICP reduction compared to hypertonic saline or mannitol.
C. Hypertonic saline (3% Normal Saline) is used to reduce intracranial pressure by drawing fluid out of the brain tissue and into the bloodstream, which can help prevent cerebral edema.
D. Norepinephrine is a vasopressor and is not used specifically to manage intracranial pressure.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Discussing over-the-counter drugs with the healthcare provider is essential, as they can interact with antiepileptic medications.
B. Discontinuing antiepileptic medications abruptly can lead to rebound seizures and is unsafe, so this statement is correct.
C. Doubling up on doses can lead to toxicity and adverse effects; missed doses should not be made up by doubling the next dose. This response indicates the need for further teaching.
D. Taking medications exactly as prescribed is necessary to maintain therapeutic levels and manage seizure control effectively.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Abnormal sensory sensations such as tingling may be associated with the aura phase of a seizure but are not typically observed postictally.
B. Yellowing of the skin is usually indicative of jaundice, unrelated to seizure activity or the postictal state.
C. Itching of the eyes is unrelated to seizure activity and would not typically be documented in the context of postictal observations.
D. The postictal state is characterized by drowsiness, confusion, and other altered mental statuses that follow a seizure. This period can vary in duration depending on the patient and seizure type.
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