A client with a spinal cord injury is at risk for experiencing autonomic dysreflexia. The nurse would carefully monitor the client for which of the following manifestations?
Severe, throbbing headache
Hypotension
Fever
Cyanosis of the head and neck
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason : A severe, throbbing headache is a common and significant manifestation of autonomic dysreflexia. This condition is a potentially life-threatening medical emergency that can occur in individuals with spinal cord injuries, typically above the T6 level. The headache results from a sudden and severe increase in blood pressure due to an exaggerated response of the autonomic nervous system to a stimulus below the level of the injury.
Choice B reason: Hypotension, or low blood pressure, is not a manifestation of autonomic dysreflexia. In fact, the condition is characterized by hypertension, or high blood pressure, which is a critical sign that requires immediate attention to prevent complications such as stroke or seizure.
Choice C reason: Fever is not a direct manifestation of autonomic dysreflexia. While a fever may indicate an infection or other systemic issue, autonomic dysreflexia itself is specifically associated with a rapid onset of high blood pressure and other autonomic disturbances.
Choice D reason: Cyanosis of the head and neck, which refers to a bluish discoloration of the skin due to poor circulation or inadequate oxygenation of the blood, is not a typical manifestation of autonomic dysreflexia. The condition primarily causes hypertension and its associated symptoms, rather than issues with oxygenation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: The fluctuation of fluid in the water-seal chamber does not necessarily mean that the lung is fully re-expanded. The water-seal chamber's fluid level fluctuates with the client's breathing because it reflects the changes in intrathoracic pressure.
Choice B reason: The statement "Your breathing pattern causes this" is correct. The fluctuation, also known as tidaling, in the water-seal chamber is normal and occurs in response to the client's breathing. When the client inhales, negative pressure in the chest cavity causes the fluid level to rise, and when the client exhales, the pressure becomes positive, causing the fluid level to fall.
Choice C reason: Suction pressure that is too high can cause continuous bubbling in the suction control chamber but does not directly cause the fluid in the water-seal chamber to rise and fall. The suction control chamber's bubbling should be steady and gentle when the suction is set correctly.
Choice D reason: Continuous bubbling in the water-seal chamber may indicate an air leak, which is a problem that needs to be addressed. However, normal fluctuation with breathing is not indicative of an air leak.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Moving the client to a double room may not be effective in preventing wandering and could potentially lead to confusion or agitation if the client is not comfortable with the roommate or the new environment.
Choice B reason: Using a bed alarm is a non-invasive way to alert staff if the client attempts to leave the bed. This can help prevent wandering and ensure the safety of the client without restricting their movement unnecessarily.
Choice C reason: Encouraging participation in activities that provide excessive stimulation is not recommended for clients with dementia, as it can lead to increased confusion, agitation, and potentially exacerbate wandering behaviors.
Choice D reason: The use of chemical restraints, such as sedative medications, should be a last resort and only used when necessary to ensure the safety of the client or others. It is important to use the least restrictive measures first and to always consider the ethical implications of using chemical restraints.
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