Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason: Albumin 25% is not a medication that the nurse should plan to administer for a client who is experiencing Cushing's triad following a subdural hematoma. Albumin 25% is a colloid solution that increases the oncotic pressure and draws fluid from the interstitial space into the intravascular space, which can worsen the intracranial pressure by increasing the cerebral blood flow and edema.
Choice B Reason: Dextran 70 is not a medication that the nurse should plan to administer for a client who is experiencing Cushing's triad following a subdural hematoma. Dextran 70 is a plasma expander that increases the blood volume and viscosity, which can also worsen the intracranial pressure by increasing the cerebral blood flow and edema.
Choice C Reason: Mannitol 25% is a medication that the nurse should plan to administer for a client who is experiencing Cushing's triad following a subdural hematoma. Mannitol 25% is an osmotic diuretic that reduces the intracranial pressure by creating an osmotic gradient and drawing fluid from the brain tissue into the blood vessels, which can then be excreted by the kidneys. The nurse should monitor the urine output, serum osmolality, and electrolytes when administering mannitol 25%.
Choice D Reason: Hydroxyethyl starch is not a medication that the nurse should plan to administer for a client who is experiencing Cushing's triad following a subdural hematoma. Hydroxyethyl starch is another plasma expander that has similar effects as dextran 70, and can also increase the risk of coagulopathy and renal failure.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason: Observing for cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks from the evacuation site is important, but not the first action that the nurse should take. CSF leaks can indicate a breach in the dura mater, which can increase the risk of infection and meningitis. The nurse should inspect the dressing and the nose and ears for any clear or bloody drainage, and report any findings to the provider. However, these measures are secondary to ensuring adequate oxygenation and perfusion.
Choice B Reason: The first action the nurse should take when caring for a client post-evacuation of a subdural hematoma is to check the oximeter to ensure adequate oxygenation. Maintaining proper oxygenation is a priority because hypoxia and hypercapnia can lead to cerebral vasodilation, increasing intracranial pressure (ICP) and worsening neurological outcomes.Key Concept: Always prioritize Airway, Breathing, and Circulation (ABCs) when determining the most immediate nursing intervention.
Choice C Reason: Assessing for an increase in temperature is another important action, but not the first one that the nurse should take. An increase in temperature can indicate an infection, inflammation, or damage to the hypothalamus, which can affect the thermoregulation of the body. The nurse should monitor the temperature and administer antipyretics as prescribed. However, these measures are secondary to ensuring adequate oxygenation and perfusion.
Choice D Reason:This is crucial, but oxygenation status should be checked first since low oxygen levels can worsen ICP.
