A client is scheduled for CT scanning of the head because of a recent onset of neurologic deficits. What should the nurse tell the client in preparation for this test?
No metal objects can enter the procedure room.
You need to fast for 8 hours prior to the test.
You will need to lie still throughout the procedure.
There will be a lot of noise during the test
The Correct Answer is C
A computed tomography (CT) scan of the head is a noninvasive diagnostic tool that produces cross-sectional images of the brain to assess for stroke, bleeding, or masses. To ensure clear images, the client must lie still throughout the procedure to avoid motion artifacts, which can distort the results. While the scan is relatively quick and painless, patient cooperation is key to image accuracy.
Rationale for Correct Answer:
C. You will need to lie still throughout the procedure: Movement during the CT scan can blur the images, making them less useful for identifying subtle neurological changes. Lying still is essential for image clarity and diagnostic accuracy.
Rationale for Incorrect Answers:
A. No metal objects can enter the procedure room: This applies more strictly to MRI scans, where magnetic fields can attract metal. CT scanners use X-rays, not magnets, so metal is not as strictly contraindicated—although clients may be asked to remove certain objects like jewelry to improve image quality.
B. You need to fast for 8 hours prior to the test: Fasting is only required for CT scans involving IV contrast, and even then, the duration is usually 2–4 hours, not H. If contrast is not used, fasting is not needed at all.
D. There will be a lot of noise during the test: CT scanners produce some sound but are much quieter than MRI machines. Excessive noise is not a concern for this type of imaging.
Key Takeaways:
• Stillness during a CT scan is critical for accurate imaging.
• CT does not require metal restrictions or noise precautions like MRI.
• Fasting is only necessary if contrast dye is to be used, and even then, only for a few hours.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D","F"]
Explanation
The components that contribute to intracranial pressure (ICP) are described by the Monro-Kellie doctrine: brain tissue, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), and blood. The dura mater, as part of the meningeal layers, also influences ICP dynamics.
Rationale for Correct Answers:
A. Brain: The brain tissue itself is one of the primary components of intracranial volume and contributes directly to ICP.
C. Cerebrospinal Fluid: CSF circulates within the ventricles and subarachnoid space and significantly influences ICP.
D. Blood: Cerebral blood volume impacts ICP through changes in arterial or venous flow.
F. Dura mater: The dura mater helps contain the intracranial contents and plays a structural role in pressure regulation.
Rationale for Incorrect Answers:
B. Neurons: While part of brain tissue, individual neurons are not discussed separately in ICP dynamics.
E. Periosteum: This membrane covers the outer surface of bone and is not involved in intracranial volume or pressure regulation.
Key Takeaways:
• Intracranial pressure is determined by the volume of brain tissue, blood, and CSF within the skull.
• The Monro-Kellie doctrine helps explain compensatory changes among these components.
• Structures outside the cranial cavity, such as the periosteum, do not impact ICP.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
An intraventricular catheter (ventriculostomy) is a device used to monitor intracranial pressure (ICP) and drain excess cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in clients with severe brain injury. While it provides valuable real-time data on ICP, it also carries a significant risk of infection because it involves direct access to the brain's ventricles. Meningitis or ventriculitis can occur if strict aseptic technique is not maintained. Nurses must closely observe for signs of infection, such as fever, change in mental status, or purulent drainage from the catheter site.
Rationale for Correct Answer:
B. Infection: Ventriculostomy catheters provide a direct route for pathogens into the central nervous system. This places the client at risk for life-threatening infections like meningitis or ventriculitis, which require immediate recognition and intervention.
Rationale for Incorrect Answers:
A. Headache: While headaches can occur with increased ICP or CSF drainage, they are not specific to ventriculostomy-related complications. Headaches are common and nonspecific and not considered a direct complication of the catheter itself.
C. Aphasia: Aphasia is a neurologic deficit related to brain injury, particularly in the dominant hemisphere, but it is not a complication of ventriculostomy. It reflects damage from the trauma itself, not the monitoring device.
D. Hypertension: Hypertension may occur as a compensatory response to increased ICP (as part of Cushing’s triad), but it is not a direct complication of the ventriculostomy catheter. It signals a systemic or neurologic response, not an issue with the catheter.
Key Takeaways:
• Infection is the most serious and common complication of ventriculostomy use.
• Nurses must maintain sterile technique and monitor closely for signs of CNS infection.
• Other symptoms like headache or hypertension may relate to the injury, not the catheter itself.
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