A nurse is caring for a client 4 hours following evacuation of a subdural hematoma. Which of the following assessments is the nurse's priority?

Intracranial pressure

Respiratory status

Temperature

Serum electrolytes

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

A. Intracranial pressure: Monitoring intracranial pressure is important in clients with a history of subdural hematoma, but immediate assessment of respiratory status takes precedence in the immediate postoperative period to ensure adequate oxygenation and ventilation.

B. Respiratory status: Following evacuation of a subdural hematoma, the client may be at risk for respiratory compromise due to factors such as altered consciousness, impaired airway reflexes, or postoperative complications. Assessing respiratory rate, depth, oxygen saturation, and presence of respiratory distress is essential for early detection and intervention.

C. Temperature: Monitoring temperature is important for detecting signs of infection or systemic complications, but it is not the priority assessment immediately following evacuation of a subdural hematoma.

D. Serum electrolytes: While monitoring serum electrolytes is important for overall assessment and management of the client's condition, it is not the priority assessment in the immediate postoperative period following evacuation of a subdural hematoma.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

- A) Extension of the arms is incorrect because decorticate posturing is characterized by flexion into the body, not extension away from it.
- B) External rotation of the lower extremities is not associated with decorticate posturing, which involves movements primarily of the upper extremities.
- C) Pronation of the hands is incorrect as decorticate posturing typically involves flexion of the arms, wrists, and fingers into the chest.
- D) Plantar flexion of the legs is correct because decorticate posturing includes internal rotation and flexion of the arms and wrists, with the legs extended and feet plantar flexed.

A. Limit the client's ambulation to once a day. B. Place the client in protective isolation. C. Minimize environmental stimuli. D. Elevate the head of the client's bed 45 degrees.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. Limiting ambulation is not a standard aneurysm precaution. While excessive activity should be avoided, strict bed rest is not always required unless specifically prescribed.
B. Protective isolation is not necessary for a client with an intracranial aneurysm, as the condition is not related to infection or immune suppression.
C. Minimizing environmental stimuli is essential to reduce stress, prevent increases in blood pressure, and decrease the risk of aneurysm rupture. A quiet, calm environment helps prevent sudden changes in intracranial pressure.
D. Elevating the head of the bed to 45 degrees may increase intracranial pressure. A more appropriate position is keeping the head of the bed elevated at 30 degrees to promote venous drainage while preventing excessive pressure on the aneurysm.

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A nurse is caring for a client 4 hours following evacuation of a subdural hematoma. Which of the following assessments is the nurse's priority?

Nursing Test Bank

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