A client in the emergency department is being prepared to receive tissue plasminogen activator (tPA). The nurse knows that which of the following is true regarding this medication?
The medication should be given with 5-6 hours of the onset of stroke systems
The medication is a primary treatment for haemorrhagic stroke.
The medication can be given to prevent clot formation in the context of head trauma
When given within a certain timeframe, the medication may dissolve an ischemic stroke
The Correct Answer is D
A) "The medication should be given with 5-6 hours of the onset of stroke symptoms":
. tPA (tissue plasminogen activator) is typically given for an ischemic stroke, and it is most effective when administered within 3 to 4.5 hours of the onset of stroke symptoms. After this time frame, the risk of bleeding complications increases, and the benefits of the medication diminish significantly. Giving tPA after 6 hours is generally considered outside the therapeutic window for ischemic stroke, though some centers may extend the window based on specific criteria.
B) "The medication is a primary treatment for hemorrhagic stroke":
. tPA is contraindicated in hemorrhagic stroke because it works by dissolving clots, which could worsen bleeding in the brain. Hemorrhagic stroke occurs when there is bleeding in the brain, and administering tPA would exacerbate the bleeding, leading to more severe brain injury and complications. The primary treatment for hemorrhagic stroke is controlling bleeding, often through surgical interventions or managing blood pressure.
C) "The medication can be given to prevent clot formation in the context of head trauma":
. tPA is not used to prevent clot formation, particularly in the setting of head trauma. It is used to dissolve existing clots in cases of ischemic stroke. Administering tPA after head trauma or brain injury could lead to catastrophic complications, such as worsening bleeding, and should be avoided. The use of tPA is contraindicated in trauma-related situations unless the stroke is clearly ischemic and there are no signs of hemorrhage.
D) "When given within a certain timeframe, the medication may dissolve an ischemic stroke":
. tPA is the standard treatment for ischemic strokes (caused by a clot blocking blood flow to the brain). When administered within 3 to 4.5 hours of the onset of symptoms, tPA can dissolve the clot, improving blood flow to the affected area of the brain and potentially minimizing the damage caused by the stroke. Timely administration is critical for maximizing its benefits in reducing disability and improving outcomes.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","C","E"]
Explanation
A) Aim to keep your HDL cholesterol as low as possible:
High-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol is often referred to as "good" cholesterol because it helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream, thereby reducing the risk of atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease. The goal should be to raise HDL cholesterol levels, not lower them. Higher levels of HDL are associated with a lower risk of heart disease.
B) Controlling your diabetes is an important factor:
Diabetes is a major risk factor for coronary artery disease (CAD). Uncontrolled blood sugar levels can lead to damage of the blood vessels, increase the risk of atherosclerosis, and raise the likelihood of heart disease. Proper management of diabetes through diet, medication, and lifestyle changes is essential to reduce the risk of CAD.
C) Exercising and achieving your goal weight are recommended:
Regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight are crucial for reducing the risk of coronary artery disease. Exercise helps improve cardiovascular health, lowers blood pressure, increases HDL cholesterol, and helps control body weight and blood sugar. Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight reduces the strain on the heart and lowers the risk of developing CAD.
D) Increase saturated fat intake and limit unsaturated fats:
Saturated fats can raise low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, also known as "bad" cholesterol, which contributes to plaque buildup in the arteries and increases the risk of heart disease. Unsaturated fats, found in foods like olive oil, avocados, and fatty fish, are healthier and can help reduce cholesterol levels and improve heart health. The goal should be to limit saturated fats and increase the intake of unsaturated fats.
E) It is important to keep your blood pressure within normal limits:
High blood pressure is a significant risk factor for coronary artery disease. It can lead to the hardening and narrowing of the arteries, increasing the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular events. Keeping blood pressure within normal limits through lifestyle changes, such as reducing salt intake, managing stress, exercising, and taking medications if needed, is essential for heart health.
Correct Answer is ["250"]
Explanation
Given:
Total volume to infuse: 250 mL
Infusion time: 60 minutes
To find:
Infusion rate (mL/hr)
Step 1: Calculate the infusion rate in mL/min
Infusion rate (mL/min) = Total volume / Infusion time
Infusion rate (mL/min) = 250 mL / 60 minutes = 4.17 mL/min
Step 2: Convert mL/min to mL/hr
Infusion rate (mL/hr) = Infusion rate (mL/min) x 60 minutes/hr
Infusion rate (mL/hr) = 4.17 mL/min x 60 minutes/hr = 250 mL/hr
Therefore, the nurse should set the pump to deliver 250 mL/hr.
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