A nurse is assessing a client who has a history of multiple concussions. Which of the following findings should alert the nurse to the possibility of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE)?
Frequent headaches
Memory loss
Personality changes
All of the above
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason:
This is a correct answer. Frequent headaches are a common symptom of CTE, which is a progressive degenerative brain disease caused by repeated head trauma. Headaches may be triggered by physical or mental exertion, stress, or noise.
Choice B reason:
This is a correct answer. Memory loss is another common symptom of CTE, which affects the areas of the brain responsible for learning and recall. Memory loss may manifest as difficulty remembering names, dates, events, or conversations.
Choice C reason:
This is a correct answer. Personality changes are also a common symptom of CTE, which affects the areas of the brain responsible for mood and behavior. Personality changes may include irritability, aggression, depression, anxiety, impulsivity, or apathy.
Choice D reason:
This is a correct answer. All of the above are possible symptoms of CTE, which can vary in severity and onset depending on the individual and the extent of brain damage. Other possible symptoms include confusion, cognitive impairment, speech problems, vision problems, balance problems, motor problems, or suicidal thoughts.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
This is an incorrect answer. The client does not need further teaching if they say they will take acetaminophen if they have a headache. Acetaminophen is a safe and effective medication for pain relief after a concussion. It does not increase the risk of bleeding or interfere with brain function.
Choice B reason:
This is an incorrect answer. The client does not need further teaching if they say they will avoid drinking alcohol or taking sleeping pills. Alcohol and sleeping pills can worsen the symptoms and recovery of a concussion. They can also mask the signs of worsening brain injury or increase the risk of falls or accidents.
Choice C reason:
This is a correct answer. The client needs further teaching if they say they will check their pupils every hour for any changes. Checking the pupils is not a reliable or accurate way to monitor the condition of a concussion. Pupil changes may not occur until late stages of brain injury or may be caused by other factors such as light exposure or medication use.
Choice D reason:
This is an incorrect answer. The client does not need further teaching if they say they will have someone stay with them for the next 24 hours. Having someone stay with them is a recommended precaution after a concussion. The person can observe the client for any signs of worsening brain injury such as confusion, vomiting, seizures, or loss of consciousness and call for help if needed.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","E"]
Explanation
Choice A reason:
This is a correct answer. Monitoring the client's GCS score helps to assess the level of consciousness and neurological function after a concussion. The GCS score ranges from 3 to 15, with lower scores indicating more severe brain injury.
Choice B reason:
This is a correct answer. Administering acetaminophen for pain relief helps to reduce headache and discomfort after a concussion. Acetaminophen is preferred over nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or aspirin, which can increase the risk of bleeding.
Choice C reason:
This is a correct answer. Encouraging the client to rest in a dark and quiet room helps to promote healing and recovery after a concussion. Rest includes physical and mental rest, which means avoiding strenuous activities, sports, driving, work, school, or screen time until symptoms resolve.
Choice D reason:
This is an incorrect answer. Providing stimulating activities such as puzzles and games can worsen symptoms and delay recovery after a concussion. The client should avoid cognitive tasks that require concentration, attention, or memory until cleared by a health care provider.
Choice E reason:
This is a correct answer. Educating the client about the signs of post-concussion syndrome helps to prepare them for possible complications and when to seek medical attention. Post-concussion syndrome is a condition in which symptoms persist for weeks or months after a concussion. Symptoms may include headache, dizziness, fatigue, insomnia, anxiety, depression, or cognitive impairment.
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.