A nurse is assessing a client who has myxedema coma. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

Choice A reason : Pupillary changes, such as unequal pupil sizes or a sluggish reaction to light, can be a sign of increased ICP. The cranial nerves that control the pupils may be compressed due to the swelling of the brain, leading to these changes¹.

Choice B reason : Disorientation, including confusion and changes in alertness, can occur with increased ICP as the pressure affects the brain's ability to process information and maintain consciousness².

Choice C reason : Headache is a common symptom of increased ICP. It can be severe and persistent due to the pressure exerted on the meninges and blood vessels within the brain³.

Choice D reason : Slurred speech may result from increased ICP if the areas of the brain responsible for speech and muscle control are affected by the pressure².

Choice E reason : Neck pain and stiffness, particularly when trying to flex the neck forward, can be indicative of meningeal irritation, which can be associated with increased ICP⁴.

Choice A reason : Conducting 15-minute checks can be part of the safety measures for a client at risk of self-harm, but it may not be sufficient for someone who is actively hearing voices commanding self-harm and refusing to engage in safety planning. These checks are less intensive and may not provide the immediate intervention needed to ensure the client's safety¹.

Choice B reason : Encouraging the client to express feelings related to suicide is an important therapeutic intervention that can provide insight into the client's emotional state and risk factors. However, if the client is actively psychotic and not engaging in safety planning, this approach alone may not be enough to ensure immediate safety¹.

Choice C reason : Placing the client on one-to-one observation is the most direct and immediate intervention to ensure safety when a client is experiencing psychotic features and is at risk of self-harm. This level of observation means that the client is never alone, and a staff member is always present to intervene if the client attempts self-harm¹.

Choice D reason : Obtaining an order for locked seclusion can be considered if other less restrictive measures are not sufficient to ensure the client's safety. However, it is generally a last resort due to the potential for negative psychological effects and should only be used when absolutely necessary and when other interventions have failed¹.