Your spinal cord injury (SCI) patient complains of a throbbing headache and nausea. You observe the patient has marked diaphoresis, and you think the patient may have autonomic dysreflexia. Place the following interventions in the order you would complete them.

Check the blood pressure

Obtain a bladder scan

Notify the doctor

Elevate the head of the bed to 45 degrees

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D,A,B,C

Choice D reason: Elevating the head of the bed to 45 degrees is the first intervention the nurse should perform. This position helps lower the patient's blood pressure by promoting venous pooling in the lower extremities and reducing the return of blood to the heart. It also aids in better breathing and overall comfort.

Choice A reason: Checking the blood pressure is crucial in this situation to confirm if the patient is experiencing autonomic dysreflexia, which is characterized by a sudden and severe increase in blood pressure. This step helps in assessing the severity of the condition and guiding subsequent interventions.

Choice B reason: Obtaining a bladder scan is important because a full bladder is a common trigger of autonomic dysreflexia. By identifying and addressing the cause of the distension, the nurse can help alleviate the symptoms and prevent further complications.

Choice C reason: Notifying the doctor is a critical step, as autonomic dysreflexia is a medical emergency that requires prompt medical intervention. The healthcare provider can give additional orders and may administer medication to control the patient's blood pressure and relieve symptoms.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Choice A reason: Hypotension, chills, and thirst are not characteristic signs and symptoms of a thyroid storm. Hypotension generally indicates low blood pressure, while chills and thirst are less specific symptoms that do not particularly point to thyroid storm.

Choice B reason: Lethargy, confusion, and bradycardia are not typical indicators of a thyroid storm. These symptoms might be present in other conditions but are not generally associated with the severe hypermetabolic state seen in thyroid storms.

Choice C reason: Bradycardia, hypotension, and low urine output are also not typical signs of a thyroid storm. Bradycardia (slow heart rate) and hypotension (low blood pressure) are more likely associated with severe hypothyroidism or other conditions, not the hyperactive state of a thyroid storm.

Choice D reason: Fever, tachycardia, and tremors are classic signs of a thyroid storm. A thyroid storm is a life-threatening condition characterized by an excessive amount of thyroid hormones, leading to hypermetabolic activity. This results in symptoms like a high fever, rapid heart rate (tachycardia), and tremors.

A. Offer high-calorie protein snacks between meals and at bedtime. B. Encourage increased intake of whole grains and vegetables. C. Encourage rest before meals. D. Provide a large glass of juice with each meal.

Correct Answer is ["A","C"]

Explanation

Choice A reason: Offering high-calorie protein snacks between meals and at bedtime is appropriate for a patient with COPD who is losing weight and eating very little. These snacks can help meet their nutritional needs and provide the extra calories and protein necessary to prevent muscle wasting and support overall health.

Choice B reason: While increasing the intake of whole grains and vegetables is generally healthy, it may not be the priority for a patient who has lost significant weight and needs to focus on higher-calorie, nutrient-dense foods. The primary goal is to address the calorie and protein deficit first.

Choice C reason: Encouraging rest before meals is beneficial as it helps conserve energy for eating. Patients with COPD often experience fatigue, which can reduce their appetite and ability to eat. Resting before meals can help them feel more energetic and better able to consume their meals.

Choice D reason: Providing a large glass of juice with each meal is not ideal for increasing calorie and protein intake. While juice can provide some calories and nutrients, it is not a good source of protein. Additionally, large volumes of liquid can create a feeling of fullness, reducing the patient's appetite for nutrient-dense foods.

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Your spinal cord injury (SCI) patient complains of a throbbing headache and nausea. You observe the patient has marked diaphoresis, and you think the patient may have autonomic dysreflexia. Place the following interventions in the order you would complete them.

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Adlent has been diagnosed with hyperthyroidism. Which signs and symptoms may indicate thyroid storm, a complication of this disorder?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) on daily prednisone therapy has been eating very little and has lost weight. Which interventions are appropriate for the nurse to include in the care plan? Select all that apply.

Correct Answer is ["A","C"]

Explanation

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