A nurse is assessing a client who has increased intracranial pressure. The nurse should recognize that which of the following is the first sign of deteriorating neurological status?

Cheyne-Stokes respirations

Pupillary dilation

Altered level of consciousness

Decorticate posturing

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

Choice A reason: Cheyne-Stokes respirations, characterized by a pattern of irregular breathing with periods of apnea, can be a sign of brain stem compression due to increased intracranial pressure. However, it is not typically the first sign of deteriorating neurological status.

Choice B reason: Pupillary dilation, especially if it is unilateral, can indicate pressure on the cranial nerves due to increased intracranial pressure. It is a concerning sign but may not be the first to appear as neurological function deteriorates.

Choice C reason: An altered level of consciousness is often the first sign of deteriorating neurological status in a patient with increased intracranial pressure. Changes in consciousness can range from slight disorientation or confusion to complete unresponsiveness.

Choice D reason: Decorticate posturing, which involves abnormal flexion of the arms with extension of the legs, indicates significant brain injury and is a later sign of increased intracranial pressure, not typically the first sign.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A reason: Decreased urinary output is not a direct indicator of morphine's effectiveness in acute heart failure. While morphine can lead to urinary retention, this is generally considered a side effect rather than an intended therapeutic outcome.

Choice B reason: Emesis, or vomiting, of 250 mL is not an indication of morphine's effectiveness. In fact, nausea and vomiting are common side effects of morphine and other opioids. If emesis occurs, it may necessitate further intervention.

Choice C reason: Decreased anxiety is a sign that the morphine is effective. Morphine has anxiolytic properties, meaning it can help alleviate anxiety, which is beneficial in acute heart failure where anxiety can exacerbate symptoms like shortness of breath.

Choice D reason: An increased respiratory rate to 26/min is not an indication of morphine's effectiveness and is a cause for concern. Morphine can depress the respiratory system, and an increased respiratory rate may indicate compensation for hypoxemia or the onset of adverse effects.

A. Press down on the orbital area of the eye. B. Pinch the trapezius muscle. C. Use a 25-gauge needle. D. Elicit a reflex with a reflex hammer.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A reason: Pressing down on the orbital area of the eye, known as the oculocephalic reflex or 'doll's eye' maneuver, is a method used to assess brainstem function in an unresponsive patient. However, this should be done with caution and is generally avoided if there is a suspicion of a neck injury or increased intracranial pressure.

Choice B reason: Pinching the trapezius muscle is a common method to elicit a response to painful stimuli. It is considered a less invasive and safer initial approach to assess the patient's response to pain without causing harm.

Choice C reason: Using a 25-gauge needle to elicit a response is not a standard practice and can be harmful. It poses a risk of skin puncture and infection, and it is not an appropriate method for assessing a patient's level of consciousness.

Choice D reason: Eliciting a reflex with a reflex hammer is used to assess the deep tendon reflexes, which can provide information about the integrity of the nervous system. However, it is not typically used as a method to elicit a response to painful stimuli in an unresponsive patient.

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A nurse is assessing a client who has increased intracranial pressure. The nurse should recognize that which of the following is the first sign of deteriorating neurological status?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is caring for a client who has acute heart failure and received morphine intravenously 30 minutes ago. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as an indication that the medication was effective?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A patient is exhibiting an altered level of consciousness and is unresponsive to verbal stimuli. To elicit a response from a painful stimulus, the nurse would:

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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