A nurse is caring for a client admitted with meningitis.
The student nurse asks, “I know that the client has a lot of edema in the brain, but what causes it?” Which of the following responses from the nurse best answers the student’s querry
Cerebral edema is caused by osmotic cerebral edema.
Cerebral edema is caused by whole body inflammation which affects the brain the most.
Cerebral edema is caused by cerebrospinal fluid flowing from the intraventricular space to the interstitial area of the brain.
Cerebral edema is caused by the by-products of the pathogen that causes the meningitis.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
Osmotic cerebral edema is a condition where water moves from the blood vessels into the brain due to changes in the concentration of particles in the blood. However, this is not the primary cause of cerebral edema in meningitis.
Choice B rationale
While inflammation can contribute to cerebral edema, it is not specific to the brain and does not affect the brain the most. In meningitis, the inflammation is primarily in the meninges, the membranes that cover the brain, and not the whole body.
Choice C rationale
Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) does flow from the intraventricular space to the interstitial area of the brain, but this is a normal process and does not cause cerebral edema. In meningitis, the inflammation of the meninges can disrupt the normal flow and absorption of CSF, leading to an accumulation of fluid and increased intracranial pressure.
Choice D rationale
In meningitis, the inflammation and immune response to the infection can lead to an increase in the permeability of the blood-brain barrier. This allows fluid and immune cells to enter the brain tissue, leading to cerebral edema. Additionally, the by-products of the pathogen that causes meningitis can directly damage the brain tissue and contribute to the edema.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Maintaining systolic BP between 141 and 145 mm Hg is considered high and can increase the risk of stroke.
Choice B rationale
The client should maintain systolic BP between 120 and 129 mm Hg. This is considered a normal blood pressure range and can help reduce the risk of stroke.
Choice C rationale
Maintaining systolic BP between 130 and 135 mm Hg is considered elevated and can increase the risk of stroke.
Choice D rationale
Maintaining systolic BP between 136 and 140 mm Hg is considered high and can increase the risk of stroke.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Monitoring volume status is important in managing increased ICP, but it is not a direct intervention to reduce ICP78.
Choice B rationale
Ensuring proper ventriculostomy transducer levels is important in monitoring ICP, but it is not a direct intervention to reduce ICP78.
Choice C rationale
Managing sedation can help control agitation and excessive muscular activity, which can potentially increase ICP. However, it is not a direct intervention to reduce ICP78.
Choice D rationale
Elevating the head of the bed 15 degrees can help promote venous drainage, enhance cerebral perfusion, and reduce ICP78.
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