A nurse is assessing a client who has suffered a traumatic brain injury. When the nurse applies a stimuli to the client, which of the following responses by the client indicates that the client has suffered an extensive cervical spine injury?
Nystagmus
Decorticate positioning
Lack of any response
Decerebrate positioning
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A Reason: This is incorrect because nystagmus is not a response to stimuli, but a condition that causes involuntary eye movements. Nystagmus can be caused by various factors, such as inner ear disorders, brain lesions, or drug toxicity, but not necessarily by cervical spine injury.
Choice B Reason: This is incorrect because decorticate positioning is a response to stimuli that indicates damage to the cerebral cortex or the corticospinal tract. Decorticate positioning is characterized by flexion of the arms and extension of the legs. It does not indicate cervical spine injury, which affects the spinal cord below the brainstem.
Choice C Reason: This is incorrect because lack of any response to stimuli can indicate various levels of brain damage or coma, but not specifically cervical spine injury. Lack of any response can also be influenced by other factors, such as sedation, hypothermia, or shock.
Choice D Reason: This is correct because decerebrate positioning is a response to stimuli that indicates damage to the brainstem or the upper cervical spine. Decerebrate positioning is characterized by extension and outward rotation of the arms and legs. It indicates a severe and life-threatening injury that can impair vital functions, such as breathing and blood pressure.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason: Reporting itching if it becomes bothersome is part of client teaching, as it may indicate inflammation or infection of the ear canal. External otitis is also known as swimmer's ear, as it can be caused by water trapped in the ear after swimming or bathing.
Choice B Reason: Using earplugs when swimming is part of client teaching, as it can prevent water from entering and irritating the ear canal. External otitis can be prevented by keeping the ear dry and avoiding trauma or foreign objects.
Choice C Reason: This is the correct choice. Inserting a cotton-tip applicator to remove excess wax is not part of client teaching, as it can damage or scratch the ear canal and increase the risk of infection. Wax helps protect and lubricate the ear canal and should not be removed unless it causes hearing impairment or discomfort.
Choice D Reason: Using a hairdryer set to low, 6 inches away from ear is part of client teaching, as it can help dry the ear canal after swimming or bathing. External otitis can be treated by applying warm compresses, using topical antibiotics or antifungals, and taking pain relievers or anti-inflammatory drugs.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Resting in bed for at least 2 days is not necessary after cataract surgery. The client should resume normal activities as soon as possible, but avoid strenuous activities that increase intraocular pressure.
Choice B reason: Deep breathing and coughing four times a day are not related to cataract surgery. This is a technique to prevent respiratory complications after abdominal or thoracic surgery.
Choice C reason: After two days, a creamy discharge is not normal. This could indicate an infection or inflammation of the eye. The client should report any changes in vision, pain, redness, swelling, or discharge to the provider.
Choice D reason: Keeping the head up and straight is the correct instruction. This helps to prevent increased intraocular pressure and bleeding in the eye. The client should also avoid rubbing or touching the eye, wearing sunglasses to protect from bright light, and using prescribed eye drops as directed.

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