A nurse in an emergency department is assessing a client who has a basilar skull fracture and serosanguineous nasal discharge following a motor vehicle crash. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as reliable for determining that the discharge is cerebrospinal fluid?

Papilledema.

Halo sign.

Racoon's eyes.

Elevated WBCs.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

Choice A rationale:
Papilledema refers to swelling of the optic disc in the eye, which can occur due to increased intracranial pressure. While it may be present in cases of basilar skull fracture, it is not a reliable finding for determining the discharge of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).
Choice B rationale:
The halo sign is a reliable finding for determining that the nasal discharge is cerebrospinal fluid. The halo sign is characterized by a ring of blood surrounded by a clear or yellowish fluid (CSF) on a dressing or tissue. This occurs because blood from the fracture mixes with the clear CSF, creating a distinct appearance.
Choice C rationale:
Racoon's eyes, also known as periorbital ecchymosis, is a term used to describe bruising around the eyes. While it can be seen in basilar skull fractures, it is not specific to cerebrospinal fluid leakage and, therefore, not reliable for identifying the nasal discharge as CSF.
Choice D rationale:
Elevated white blood cells (WBCs) in the nasal discharge can indicate infection, inflammation, or an immune response. However, it does not provide direct evidence that the discharge is cerebrospinal fluid, so this is not a reliable finding for determining the nature of the nasal discharge in this context.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

Administering phenytoin IV no faster than 100 mg/min is crucial to prevent adverse effects such as cardiovascular collapse or severe hypotension. Rapid administration of phenytoin can cause cardiac arrhythmias and should be avoided.

Choice B rationale:

Monitoring plasma phenytoin levels to establish the therapeutic range is a necessary action in managing the client's seizure disorder, but it does not pertain to the specific administration of phenytoin via intermittent bolus.

Choice C rationale:

Adding the medication to the existing IV solution is not appropriate for phenytoin administration. Phenytoin should be administered separately and not mixed with other IV solutions to maintain its stability and prevent interactions.

Choice D rationale:

Monitoring the client for hypertension is not directly related to the administration of phenytoin via intermittent bolus. Hypertension is not a common adverse effect of this medication. However, blood pressure should be monitored as part of routine care for any client on antiepileptic therapy.

A. Prolonged sun exposure. B. Reduced intake of vitamin E. C. Drinking one glass of wine per day. D. Exposure to second-hand tobacco smoke.

Correct Answer is ["A","D"]

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

Prolonged sun exposure is a risk factor for osteoporosis because it can lead to vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption, and low levels of vitamin D can contribute to reduced bone density and increased risk of fractures.

Choice B rationale:

Reduced intake of vitamin E is not a well-established risk factor for osteoporosis. Vitamin E is an antioxidant and plays a role in various bodily processes, but its association with osteoporosis is not supported by strong evidence.

Choice C rationale:

Drinking one glass of wine per day is not a risk factor for osteoporosis. In fact, moderate alcohol consumption has been suggested to have a protective effect on bone density in some studies.

Choice D rationale:

Exposure to second-hand tobacco smoke is a risk factor for osteoporosis. Smoking and exposure to tobacco smoke have been linked to decreased bone density and increased risk of fractures, making this an important point to include in the teaching.

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A nurse in an emergency department is assessing a client who has a basilar skull fracture and serosanguineous nasal discharge following a motor vehicle crash. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as reliable for determining that the discharge is cerebrospinal fluid?

Nursing Test Bank

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A nurse is planning to administer phenytoin IV via intermittent bolus to a client who has a seizure disorder and is receiving a continuous IV infusion of dextrose 5% in water (D5W). Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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