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

Answer and Explanation

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.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A rationale
Instructing the client on daily muscle stretching can help alleviate and relax muscle spasms, which is beneficial for a client diagnosed with multiple sclerosis.

Choice B rationale
Ordering a low-residual diet is not typically a part of the care plan for a client diagnosed with multiple sclerosis.
Choice C rationale
Encouraging the client to void every hour may not be necessary for a client diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, unless there are specific urinary symptoms present.
Choice D rationale
Providing total assistance with all activities of daily living may not be necessary for a client diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, as the level of assistance required can vary greatly depending on the severity of the disease.

A. The patient is lying in bed with their head elevated to 35 degrees. B. The nurse provides thickened liquids per the orders. C. The nurse does not rush the patient in eating each bite. D. The nurse ensures that the patient’s food is minced.

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A rationale
The patient lying in bed with their head elevated to 35 degrees while eating could pose a risk for aspiration, especially for a patient with Huntington’s disease. Huntington’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that can cause difficulties with swallowing and motor control.
Therefore, it is recommended that the patient be as upright as possible, ideally in a seated position, during meals to reduce the risk of aspiration.
Choice B rationale

Providing thickened liquids is a common intervention for patients with Huntington’s disease who have difficulty swallowing. Thickened liquids are easier to control and swallow, reducing the risk of aspiration.
Choice C rationale
Not rushing the patient in eating each bite is a recommended practice. Patients with Huntington’s disease often have difficulty with motor control, including swallowing. Allowing the patient to take their time can help prevent choking and aspiration.
Choice D rationale
Ensuring that the patient’s food is minced is another recommended practice for patients with Huntington’s disease. Minced food is easier to chew and swallow, which can help prevent choking and aspiration.

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When providing care for a comatose patient, how should a nurse evaluate motor responses?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

The nurse is creating a plan of care for a client who has a recent diagnosis of multiple sclerosis. Which of the following should the nurse include in the client’s care plan?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

The nurse is precepting a new nurse who is caring for a patient with a history of Huntington’s disease. The new nurse is preparing to feed the patient lunch. What action by the new nurse would cause the precepting nurse to intervene?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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