When providing care for a comatose patient, how should a nurse evaluate motor responses?
By using the Romberg test
By assessing the patient’s sensitivity to temperature and touch
By observing the patient’s response to painful stimuli
By observing the reaction of pupils to light
The Correct Answer is C
Choice C rationale
When providing care for a comatose patient, a nurse should evaluate motor responses by observing the patient’s response to painful stimuli. This can be done by applying a painful stimulus, such as a trapezius pinch or nailbed pressure, and observing the patient’s motor response. Purposeful or semi-purposeful movements, such as localizing or withdrawing from pain, can provide valuable information about the patient’s level of consciousness and neurological function.
Choice A rationale
The Romberg test is used to evaluate balance and is not typically used to evaluate motor responses in a comatose patient.
Choice B rationale
Assessing the patient’s sensitivity to temperature and touch can provide information about sensory function, but it does not directly evaluate motor responses.
Choice D rationale
Observing the reaction of pupils to light can provide information about cranial nerve function, but it does not directly evaluate motor responses.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Triptans, a class of medications commonly used to treat migraines, can cause vasoconstriction, or narrowing of the blood vessels. This can be problematic for patients with angina, a condition characterized by reduced blood flow to the heart. Vasoconstriction could potentially exacerbate this condition, leading to an increased risk of a heart attack. Therefore, the use of triptans may be contraindicated in patients with angina.
Choice B rationale
While asthma is a serious condition that requires careful management, it is not typically considered a contraindication for the use of triptans. Triptans work primarily on the blood vessels in the brain and do not typically interact with the bronchial tubes affected by asthma.
Choice C rationale
Age alone is not typically a contraindication for the use of triptans. However, older adults may have a higher risk of certain health conditions, such as heart disease, which could make the use of triptans more risky. It’s important for healthcare providers to consider the overall health status of the patient, not just their age, when deciding whether to prescribe triptans.
Choice D rationale
While stress can certainly exacerbate migraines, it is not typically a contraindication for the use of triptans. Triptans are designed to relieve the pain and other symptoms of migraines, regardless of their cause. If a patient’s migraines are triggered by stress, it may be beneficial to explore stress management techniques in addition to medication.
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a serious complication that can occur in comatose patients. Immobility is a major risk factor for VTE, and comatose patients are often immobile. Therefore, nurses should be vigilant for signs of VTE, such as swelling, pain, or redness in the extremities.
Choice B rationale
Hemorrhage is not typically a direct complication of coma. However, the underlying cause of the coma, such as a traumatic brain injury, could potentially lead to hemorrhage.
Choice C rationale
Contractures, or the shortening and hardening of muscles, tendons, or other tissue, can occur in comatose patients due to prolonged immobility. Regular movement and physiotherapy can help prevent this complication.
Choice D rationale
Pressure ulcers, also known as bedsores, are a common complication in comatose patients. They occur when there is prolonged pressure on the skin, usually over bony areas. Regular turning and good skin care can help prevent pressure ulcers.
Choice E rationale
Pneumonia is a common complication in comatose patients, often resulting from aspiration (inhaling food, stomach acid, or saliva into the lungs)2. Nurses should be vigilant for signs of pneumonia, such as fever, cough, and difficulty breathing.
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