A nurse in an emergency department is caring for a client who became unresponsive after stating she had a sudden, severe headache with vomiting and then seizure activity. The client's vital signs are as follows: blood pressure of 198/110 mm Hg pulse of 82 bpm, respirations of 24/min, and a temperature of 100.8 F (38.2° C). Which neurologic disorder would the nurse suspect?
Thrombotic stroke
Embolic stroke
Hemorrhagic stroke
Transient ischemic attack (TIA)
The Correct Answer is C
A. Thrombotic stroke. A thrombotic stroke develops more gradually and is not typically associated with such sudden and severe symptoms.
B. Embolic stroke. An embolic stroke is often associated with a known embolic source, such as a clot from the heart, and can present more suddenly, but without all the symptoms seen here.
C. Hemorrhagic stroke: Hemorrhagic strokes often present with a sudden, severe headache, vomiting, seizure activity, and high blood pressure. A fever may also develop due to increased intracranial pressure.
D. Transient ischemic attack (TIA). TIAs are brief and resolve within minutes to hours and do not typically cause seizures.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Hypokalemia: U waves are often seen on an electrocardiogram in clients with hypokalemia. They represent delayed repolarization of the Purkinje fibers due to low potassium levels.
B. Hypercalcemia: Hypercalcemia affects the QT interval, typically shortening it, but it does not cause U waves.
C. Hyponatremia: Electrocardiographic changes are not commonly associated with hyponatremia.
D. Hyperkalemia: Hyperkalemia causes peaked T waves, prolonged PR intervals, and wide QRS complexes, not U waves.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Insertion of central venous access: This is not relevant to compartment syndrome management. Central venous access is used for fluid administration or monitoring central venous pressure.
B. Phlebotomy: This is unrelated to the management of compartment syndrome, as it involves drawing blood and does not address the increased pressure.
C. Fasciotomy: Compartment syndrome is a medical emergency where increased pressure within a closed compartment compromises circulation and tissue function. A fasciotomy involves surgically opening the compartment to relieve the pressure, prevent tissue necrosis, and save the limb. This is the definitive treatment.
D. Insertion of arterial line: While this may be useful for monitoring blood pressure in critical situations, it does not relieve compartment syndrome.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
