A nurse is assessing a client in the emergency department when it is noted the left pupil is enlarged and fixed while the right pupil constricts to 2mm when exposed to light. Which of the following is a possible cause of unequal pupil sizing?
Normal variation in pupil size
Age-related changes
Ocular trauma
Excessive light exposure
The Correct Answer is C
A. There can be slight variations in pupil size but the difference described (one pupil enlarged and fixed, the other constricted and reactive to light) is not considered normal.
B. Age-related changes in pupil size typically involve a gradual decrease in pupil size, not a sudden and dramatic difference between the two eyes.
C. Unequal pupil size, especially when one pupil is fixed and dilated, is a classic sign of increased intracranial pressure (ICP), often caused by head trauma.
D. Exposure to light would cause both pupils to constrict, not one to dilate and fix.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Elevating the head of the bed is a cornerstone of managing increased intracranial pressure (ICP). Elevating the head of the bed to 30 degrees promotes venous drainage from the brain, helping to reduce ICP.
B. A brightly lit environment can stimulate the patient and increase ICP. A calm, dark environment is preferred.
C. Fluid restriction, not encouragement, is often necessary to manage ICP. Excessive fluid can increase intracranial volume.
D. Controlled coughing and deep breathing are important for lung expansion but coughing and straining can increase ICP. Gentle breathing exercises are preferred.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Elective cardioversion is a procedure used to restore a normal heart rhythm by delivering a controlled electrical shock to the heart. It is generally used for patients with stable atrial or ventricular arrhythmias who do not respond to medication. In the case of stable VT, elective cardioversion might be considered if the arrhythmia is causing symptoms or if the patient’s condition changes
B. CPR is an emergency procedure used when a person’s heart has stopped beating (cardiac arrest) or when they are not breathing. It is not indicated for a stable VT because the patient is still stable and conscious, and CPR is not used for arrhythmias like VT in a stable patient.
C. Radiofrequency catheter ablation is a procedure used to destroy abnormal electrical pathways in the heart that cause arrhythmias. This is often used as a treatment for recurrent or persistent VT, especially if medication or cardioversion fails to manage the condition effectively. For a stable patient with VT, this treatment might be considered in the long-term management plan rather than as an immediate intervention.
D. Defibrillation is the use of an electrical shock to the heart to restore a normal rhythm in cases of life- threatening arrhythmias such as ventricular fibrillation or pulseless VT. It is not used for stable VT because the patient still has a pulse and is not in immediate danger of cardiac arrest
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