A client who had a C5 spinal cord injury 2 years ago is admitted to the emergency department (ED) with the diagnosis of autonomic dysreflexia secondary to a full bladder. Which assessment finding should the nurse expect this client to exhibit?

Hypotension and venous pooling in the extremities

Reports of chest pain and shortness of breath

Pain and a burning sensation upon urination and hematuria

Profuse diaphoresis and severe, pounding headache

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

Choice A reason: Hypotension and venous pooling in the extremities are typically signs of neurogenic shock, which occurs immediately after a spinal cord injury. However, autonomic dysreflexia is characterized by severe hypertension, not hypotension. The symptoms in this scenario do not fit the presentation of autonomic dysreflexia.

Choice B reason: Reports of chest pain and shortness of breath are not the primary symptoms of autonomic dysreflexia. While autonomic dysreflexia can cause a variety of symptoms due to uncontrolled sympathetic nervous system activity, the hallmark symptoms are severe hypertension and headache, along with other specific signs like diaphoresis.

Choice C reason: Pain and a burning sensation upon urination and hematuria indicate a urinary tract infection or another urological issue, not autonomic dysreflexia. While a full bladder is a common trigger for autonomic dysreflexia, the symptoms described in this choice do not accurately reflect the condition.

Choice D reason: Profuse diaphoresis and a severe, pounding headache are classic symptoms of autonomic dysreflexia. This condition results from an overactive autonomic nervous system response to stimuli below the level of the injury, such as a full bladder. The resulting vasoconstriction leads to severe hypertension and symptoms like headache and sweating above the level of injury.

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Correct Answer is ["400"]

Explanation

Step-by-Step Calculation:

Step 1: Determine the total volume to be infused 100 mL

Step 2: Convert minutes to hours 15 minutes ÷ 60 minutes per hour = 0.25 hours

Step 3: Calculate the infusion rate in mL/hr 100 mL ÷ 0.25 hours = 400 mL/hr

Answer: 400 mL/hr

So, the nurse should program the infusion pump to deliver 400 mL/hr.

A. Administer PRN pain medication. B. Observe the leg for swelling. C. Assess peripheral pulses. D. Auscultate blood pressure.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A reason: Administering PRN pain medication can help manage the client's discomfort, but it does not address the underlying cause of the pain. It is essential to assess and identify the source of the pain before administering pain relief. Providing pain medication without a thorough assessment may mask symptoms of a serious underlying issue.

Choice B reason: Observing the leg for swelling is important, as swelling can indicate complications such as compartment syndrome or infection. However, it is not the first action the nurse should take. While swelling is a significant sign, assessing blood flow to the extremity is more critical and should be prioritized.

Choice C reason: Assessing peripheral pulses is the correct first intervention. The presence of foot pain in a client with an external fixation device for a fractured femur could indicate compromised blood flow to the lower extremity. Assessing the peripheral pulses will help determine if there is adequate circulation. If pulses are weak or absent, it may suggest a serious vascular issue that requires immediate intervention to prevent further complications such as tissue ischemia or necrosis.

Choice D reason: Auscultating blood pressure is a routine assessment but does not directly address the immediate concern of left foot pain in this scenario. Blood pressure assessment is important for overall health monitoring but is not the priority when dealing with a possible vascular complication in the affected limb. Ensuring adequate blood flow to the extremity takes precedence.

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A client who had a C5 spinal cord injury 2 years ago is admitted to the emergency department (ED) with the diagnosis of autonomic dysreflexia secondary to a full bladder. Which assessment finding should the nurse expect this client to exhibit?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

The healthcare provider prescribes 100 mL of 0.9% normal saline to be infused within 15 minutes. The nurse should program the infusion pump to deliver how many mL/hr? (Enter numerical value only.)

Correct Answer is ["400"]

Explanation

A client with an external fixation device for a fractured left femur is troubled with left foot pain. Which intervention should the nurse implement first?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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