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
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Anticipating obtaining a throat swab for rapid streptococcus testing is not immediately related to the use of a budesonide inhaler. This test is typically done when there is a suspicion of a streptococcal infection, not specifically for managing asthma medication side effects.
Choice B reason: Offering reassurance that the symptoms are common with budesonide use may not fully address the patient’s concern or prevent potential complications. It is more effective to provide actionable advice that can help manage the symptoms.
Choice C reason: Suggesting that the patient stop using the spray until the symptoms are resolved could potentially worsen asthma control. Budesonide is an important medication for managing asthma, and discontinuing it without alternative treatment may lead to exacerbation of symptoms.
Choice D reason: Teaching the patient to gargle with water after using the budesonide inhaler is the most appropriate action. This practice helps to reduce the risk of developing oral thrush, a common side effect of inhaled corticosteroids like budesonide. Gargling with water removes any residual medication in the mouth, thereby minimizing the risk of infection.
Correct Answer is ["A","D","F"]
Explanation
Choice A reason: An oxygen mask is essential for providing supplemental oxygen to the patient, especially if they experience respiratory distress or decreased oxygen saturation following a seizure. Ensuring adequate oxygenation is a priority in post-seizure care.
Choice B reason: A nasogastric tube may be used in specific situations for feeding or medication administration, but it is not routinely necessary for all patients treated for status epilepticus.
Choice C reason: A urinary catheter is used for managing urinary output, particularly in patients with retention or incontinence issues, but it is not immediately required for all patients post-status epilepticus.
Choice D reason: Suction set-up is necessary for maintaining the patient's airway and preventing aspiration, particularly if the patient has excessive secretions or vomits after a seizure. Suction equipment allows the nurse to quickly clear the airway and ensure the patient can breathe effectively.
Choice E reason: Tongue blades are not recommended for seizure management as they can cause injury. Historically, there was a misconception about using tongue blades to prevent tongue biting during seizures, but this practice is now discouraged due to the risk of oral injury.
Choice F reason: Side rail pads are important for protecting the patient from injury during potential future seizures. Padded side rails help prevent trauma from hitting the bed rails during convulsions and provide a safer environment for the patient.
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