A nurse in the emergency department is monitoring a client who has a cervical spinal cord injury from a fall. The nurse should monitor the client for which of the following complications? (Select all that apply.)
Weakened gag reflex
Hyperthermia
Absence of bowel sounds
Paralysis
Polyuria
Hypotension
Correct Answer : A,C,D,F
Choice A: A cervical spinal cord injury can impair the function of cranial nerves, leading to a weakened gag reflex and an increased risk of aspiration.
Choice B: Patients with spinal cord injuries are more likely to experience poikilothermia (difficulty regulating body temperature), but this often results in hypothermia, not hyperthermia, due to the loss of autonomic temperature control.
Choice C: Spinal shock, which often follows a spinal cord injury, can cause decreased or absent bowel sounds due to a temporary loss of autonomic function and decreased peristalsis.
Choice D: Depending on the level and severity of the injury, paralysis can occur, affecting motor function below the injury site. A cervical spinal cord injury may lead to quadriplegia (tetraplegia).
Choice E: Clients with spinal cord injuries are more likely to experience urinary retention, rather than polyuria, due to loss of bladder control and autonomic dysfunction. A foley catheter may be needed initially, followed by intermittent catheterization.
Choice F: Neurogenic shock, a potential complication of cervical spinal cord injuries, can cause hypotension due to the loss of sympathetic nervous system control over blood vessel tone, leading to vasodilation and bradycardia.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice a) is correct because copies of insurance cards can help clients access medical care and claim compensation in case of a disaster. Insurance cards can also serve as a form of identification if other documents are lost or damaged.
Choice b) is correct because a whistle can help clients signal for help or locate each other in case of an emergency. A whistle can also deter potential atackers or wild animals.
Choice c) is incorrect because antibiotics are not recommended to be included in a disaster readiness supply kit or “go bag”. Antibiotics are prescription drugs that should only be used under the guidance of a health care provider. Using antibiotics without proper indication, dosage, or duration can cause adverse effects, such as allergic reactions, resistance, or superinfection.
Choice d) is correct because household bleach can be used to disinfect water, surfaces, or wounds in case of a disaster. Household bleach can also be used to create chlorine gas, which can be used as a weapon or a deterrent.
Choice e) is correct because pencil and paper can be used to write down important information, such as contact numbers, medical history, or evacuation plans. Pencil and paper can also be used to communicate with others, especially if there is no access to phone or internet services.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A: Hct 45% is not a value that the nurse should report to the provider. Hct, or hematocrit, is the percentage of red blood cells in the total blood volume. The normal range for Hct is 37% to 51% for men and 32% to 45% for women. Hct 45% is within the normal range and does not indicate any abnormality.
Choice B: Platelets 160,000/mm³ is not a value that the nurse should report to the provider. Platelets, or thrombocytes, are cell fragments that help with blood clotting and hemostasis. The normal range for platelets is 150,000 to 450,000/mm³. Platelets 160,000/mm³ is within the normal range and does not indicate any abnormality.
Choice C: WBC 1,700/mm³ is a value that the nurse should report to the provider. WBC, or white blood cells, are cells that fight infection and inflammation. The normal range for WBC is 4,500 to 11,000/mm³. WBC 1,700/mm³ is below the normal range and indicates leukopenia, which is a low number of white blood cells. Leukopenia can be caused by various conditions, such as viral infections, autoimmune disorders, bone marrow suppression, or chemotherapy. Leukopenia can increase the risk of infection and sepsis and requires prompt evaluation and treatment.
Choice D: Hgb 14.7 g/dL is not a value that the nurse should report to the provider. Hgb, or hemoglobin, is a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen to the tissues. The normal range for Hgb is 13.5 to 17.5 g/dL for men and 12.0 to 15.5 g/dL for women. Hgb 14.7 g/dL is within the normal range and does not indicate any abnormality.
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