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: This is incorrect because drawing with crayons may be too childish or frustrating for a client with moderate Alzheimer's. Crayons may also pose a choking hazard or cause messes. The nurse should provide activities that are suitable for the client's cognitive and functional level, as well as their interests and preferences.
Choice B Reason: This is incorrect because dangling ribbons or a mobile may be too stimulating or confusing for a client with moderate Alzheimer's. These items may also trigger agitation or wandering behaviors. The nurse should provide activities that are calming and familiar for the client.
Choice C Reason: This is correct because listening to music, watching TV, or videos can be enjoyable and beneficial for a client with moderate Alzheimer's. Music can evoke memories, emotions, and positive responses. TV or videos can provide entertainment, education, and socialization. The nurse should choose music, TV shows, or videos that are appropriate and meaningful for the client.
Choice D Reason: This is incorrect because board games may be too complex or challenging for a client with moderate Alzheimer's. Board games may require memory, concentration, logic, or strategy skills that the client may have lost. The nurse should provide activities that are simple and easy for the client to follow.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is incorrect because increasing her voice when speaking to the client may not prevent complications, but rather annoy or offend the client. The nurse should not assume that a client with a visual impairment has a hearing impairment as well unless it is confirmed by assessment or history. The nurse should speak in a normal tone and volume and identify herself by name and role.
Choice B reason: This is incorrect because lowering the bed rails before lowering the bed may increase the risk of complications, such as falls or injuries. The nurse should keep the bed rails up until the client is ready to get out of bed and lower them only when necessary. The nurse should also lock the wheels of the bed and adjust it to a comfortable height for the client.
Choice C reason: This is incorrect because using hand gestures to point to where the client will walk may not prevent complications, but rather confuse or frustrate the client. The nurse should not use visual cues or gestures that are meaningless to a client with a visual impairment. The nurse should use verbal directions and descriptions instead, such as "The restroom is on your left, about 10 steps away."
Choice D reason: This is correct because standing slightly in front and to one side of the client can prevent complications, such as collisions or falls. The nurse should guide the client by offering her arm or shoulder for support and walking slightly ahead of him or her. The nurse should also warn the client about any obstacles or changes in terrain, such as stairs, doors, or rugs.
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